Why Do You Pedal?

As I sat here at work trying to think of something interesting to write about I was starting to get discouraged. Just when I was about to give up the ghost, “crazy” Ivan stopped in front of the shop window.

For those of you not in the know, “crazy” Ivan is a gentleman that frequents Mock Orange Bikes which is right next door. More or less homeless, his bike is obviously one of his few possessions. He comes by virtually every day and always has something “wrong” with his prized possession, an older steel framed road bike. Resplendent with saddle bag, reflectors, chain guards and all, Ivan never seems to lack pride in his machine. He struts along pushing his bike just feeling good. Come to think of it, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen Ivan actually ride his bike. Nonetheless, as I watched him check his wheels that were undoubtedly just trued for the billionth time, it made me realize that people ride bikes for all different reasons and it prompted me to think about why I ride a bike.

It’s important to take a step back sometimes. Not just with cycling but any interest you may have, or life in general. It’s easy to get so wrapped up in something that we forget why we are there in the first place. You can skew in different directions without even realizing it and in doing so, turn something you love into a secondary chore. It becomes routine and mundane. In essence, you forget to enjoy it. Sometimes we spend too much time looking at our power meters and forget to enjoy the scenery. (That’s an analogy, think about it.)

Ivan may have a simpler life than most of us. He has plenty of time to stare at his bike, eyes glistening and grinning ear to ear, but we can all learn something from him. Not one bit of enjoyment with his bike is lost. While most of us have jobs, school, children, etc. to occupy much of our time, we should never forget to enjoy the things we really love and remember why we started doing them. How often do you find yourself rushing to squeeze a bike ride in between work and other happenings, or chugging a cup of coffee on your way out the door (don’t rush my coffee experience, I want to savor it!)? The fact is that sometimes we have to. Time is a precious commodity and sometimes it’s scarce. However, when you are fortunate enough to have a few extra minutes, remember why you’re doing whatever it is that strikes your fancy. Soak it all in, your soul will appreciate it and it can be the difference between hating life and loving it.

There's nothing revolutionary about this. I didn't invent enjoying life. However, a little reminder every now and again is good. So thanks Ivan. Right now he is undoubtedly strutting around town with his life’s true joy, totally oblivious to how he impacted my day or that I’m writing this post about him(and to the fact that someone may or may not have created a Facebook profile for him). There’s also a good possibility he’s already downed a 40oz., but ride on Ivan, for I am but a student and you are the teacher.

Quote of the Week:
Ivan: “My front wheel’s messed up”
Zach (Manager of Mock Orange): “How’d you do that Ivan?”
Ivan: “Crashed.”
Zach: “How’d you do that?”
Ivan: “Drunk”