I started yesterday by reading Grist contributor Elly Blue’s 7 part series on how cycling impacts our lives—from personal finance to local economies to the national budget. This inspired me to get my bike out of the garage so that I can do my part to meet my own wellness goals. Cycling does not require a particular body type or any special training, and certainly you can’t fight gravity without putting in some work.
I enjoy long distance cycling, but I have not done much of it since I was hit by a car and left a little unconscious. A little unconscious, you ask? In 2000, while training for a Boston to New York Aids Ride, I was in an accident and I do not recall the circumstances. I was awake at 9:50 am. The next time I saw a clock it was 11:45 am. I broke a wrist on one arm and an elbow on the other arm. Also I have enough scar tissue in my upper lip to always remind me of the event. I’m still a little afraid to ride on the road alone, so now I ride in groups. But I’m still riding the same bike today that I rode the day of the accident. It survived basically unscathed.
It took me close to six months to recover, but thankfully I had no brain damage. I witnessed others while in rehabilitation who had experienced a similar accident and no longer remembered their names. In light of this my injuries were minor and I am really thankful for the opportunity to continue life.
This accident changed me. Riding my bicycle reminds me that going the distance is a state of intention. Whenever I feel like giving up because something is not working, I keep going the distance. It’s the “Yes I will ” or the “Keep your eye on the road just in front of you when cycling” mantra that propel your life forward. You don’t need to spend time thinking about how far you have to go; instead focus on what is in front of you. When I was learning to climb hills on my bike I was given this advice, and I continue to use it whenever I feel a bit stumped, stuck or defeated.
How do you handle disappointment? Share how you respond to challenges.
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