Walking slowly is a metaphor for living a fulfilling life where you enjoy the things in front of you to the fullest.
After all, when you are walking slowly, you can enjoy the sounds of the birds, the feel of the grass and land beneath your feet, and the smell of the lilacs.
But when you rush, your mind is elsewhere, busy, concerned, away from the moment you are truly in.
Any one who wishes the former upon me is a good friend of mine.