As the weather warms and I get back out on the road bike, I do a lot of thinking. On my easy ride the other day I realized how much faith we put in other people, walkers, drivers and other riders, to do the right thing. It is this belief that lets my mind wander while I ride away.
One of my old riding friends used to call this an unprotected left; no light, no yield, a stop sign for the side street, and the belief that everyone will do what they are supposed to. On my ride, I come to one of these turns at the bottom of a quarter mile downhill, and opposing traffic comes at it around a curve. With a 40 MPH speed limit and people regularly beyond that, it gets a little dicey. So, I put faith in people and do what I do.
I look over my shoulder and check traffic; all good. Signal my left and move into the travel lane, all good. As I near the turn a car whips around the curve, timing is now the issue. Do I go? Do I slow down and let him pass? Full stop means getting a foot out…
That’s when it happens, the driver flashes his lights. Again putting my faith in the goodness of others, I go for it. Truly hoping that is what he meant…
No collision; I’m on my way.
That’s when I see it. A little thumbs up out the back window and a tiny voice calling “Have a good ride!” This brief interaction with an unknown person puts a smile on my face and a renewed push to my pace. Simple interactions even with strangers can change a mindset. Communication, even if not always well defined can help people understand the situation. When in doubt say nice things, just be kind, and have a positive impact on the world.
Stay safe out there. Be well.
Sirius Fun 
Leave a comment