On Saturday, I got back on my road bike once again after a two month hiatus from riding due to knee surgery. This was a spiritual moment for me, one that I savored. Instead of mounting my GPS/bike computer, I left it deliberately at home on my desk. For this ride, this unique day, I wanted to ride just for the sake of riding. (I made sure to have my cellphone and ID handy in the back pocket of my shirt.)
With no plan, particular route or goal in my mind, I slowly set off on my bike. As I left Brookline, I paid careful attention to how my body felt back on the bike. Oh – how I had missed those long rides on the open road. For now I was happy just to be able to ride and not worry about the length or type of ride.
A half hour into my ride I felt a slight pain in my left knee, being mindful, I pedaled slower at an easy cadence and switched gears. Ah – so much better just to simply pedal and enjoy the ride, the crisp breeze on my body, and the beauty of a clear fall afternoon. I smiled as I passed by a row of tall and elegant pines leading me along my unplanned route. The bike was now an extension of my body. Others riders, runners and walkers along the way waved and smiled to me, as I pedaled on.
When I arrived home, I thought to myself, “Wow – so that’s what the zen of riding feels like on a glorious day. I feel great!” I just rode for the joy and pleasure of the ride, no goals necessary today.
