Why We Ride – Cathedral Cyclists Answer

Riding a bicycle can help us connect to people in our community. It can also lift our spirits. Here are some of the ways this happens for me.
• We get to see each other face to face instead of through a windshield
• Sharing smiles and waves with vehicle drivers who have stopped for me
• Brief conversations while waiting for the lights to change – “nice helmet!”
• Smelling the fragrance of flowers and trees and the rain
• The aroma of dinners cooking, especially barbeques
• Observing how my neighbourhood and the seasons are changing

Helmets, lights, and hi-vis clothing aside, riding a bicycle can make you feel vulnerable. When we drive our cars or ride or roll, we often forget that everyone is trying to get some place and we should take care of each other as best as we can and not make it a race.

Before leaving home, I offer a prayer for all who will be travelling that day, that we be reminded to be kind to each other. That goes double for me so I can remember to be patient with drivers, walkers on their phones and other cyclists when we get in each other’s way. 

The best part is arriving safely, feeling good about my mode of travel, being grateful that I am able to ride, and offering care for our planet. Riding brings me happiness. Bless the bicycle.