Today I got this video from peopleforbikes.org and it inspired me to write this:
I am the oldest of eight children. If I got a bike, then everyone would have to have one and we didn’t have money for that. Besides, we moved a lot and all those bikes, all those repairs, all that stuff was probably too much for my parents to deal with. So, for many years I just longed for a bike. Then one day, when I was an adult, my sister left town and she didn’t want her bike anymore and gave hers to me. I started to ride her bike and could not stop. That was 24 years ago. I am still riding. Reflecting on this, I have to say that one day I want a job where I can ride to work. I would like to see bike racks everywhere and not empty bike racks. I would like to see expressways to downtown that are just for cyclists. When I see people on bikes when I am driving, I feel such respect for them. I am also envious because I know how they feel being outside and feeling the energy of the road. Cycling in traffic does not bother me. I have cycled in rush-hour traffic. Though drivers were not always thrilled to have me weaving in and around them, I know it’s good that I am on a bike and not in a car. I am infused by the magical thought of using my very own fuel to propel myself through space. I love the wind on my face and the challenge of a good hill. I love knowing that on days when I ride, I am seeing people and nature and smelling the day. I am in the day, not an observer from a window. Biking is good!
