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I am reminded, yet again, that life is a vapor. I got home from our training ride yesterday to hear that 3 cyclists had been hit head on on Steven's Canyon - a road frequented by a lot of us south peninsula/south bay cyclists. Later news reports revealed 2 dead and one seriously injured - hit by a sheriff's vehicle that had crossed the center line. Even later reports revealed the one of the fatalities was a young lady my age who was having what could only be described as a meteoric rise through the racing categories this year. I think she won or podiumed about 8 races in a row and even had a signature attack move that folks were starting to name after her. Sigh. The two cyclists will certainly be missed in the Bay Area peloton.
That news came after seeing a team mate hauled off in an ambulance on Saturday at the race. Fortunately, she is doing great. Thanks to all who showed concern and asked about her after the race. No major injuries. She should be back on the bike in a couple weeks.
sometimes the preponderance of evidence seems to say "it's not worth it".
But, then I remember...
The fun of flying by the peloton in a perfectly timed attack as Hernando's voice is "lovingly heckling" over the PA. Yeah, that was going nowhere 2 laps into the race, but it was fun!
The joy of all the wonderful friends I've made and people I've met while pursuing my passion.
That epic 8 mile descent of perfectly paved, s-curved roads with no cars that day when we rode out of Volterra. I never once touched my brakes as I soared through the lunar landscape of freshly tilled fields.
That day of climbing in the Dolomites where it was so beautiful I felt like I could climb forever, despite my lack of fitness and ample baggage.
When I think on these things, I realize that each of them is a gift. And, that I'd rather have my 32 years filled with all these things than 99 years of perfectly calculated safety. The best moments of my life have come as a result of taking some sort of risk or leap of faith.
I just need to remember....
8 comments:
ms. chatterbox...so perfectly captured, the reasons why we take risks, why we challenge ourselves, and why life is so fun and rewarding. You never know how long you have, so you might as well enjoy every single day. I am so saddened about those 2 cyclists who were hit and killed yesterday-it just doesn't make sense. So very sad...
--and wow, cool photo of your attack! Can't wait to read about it in great detail....
Yes, my dear, we take risks. But it is by taking those risks that we get the biggest rewards. I would not have it any other way, and I know you feel the same. It is better to take a big swig from life, with the attendant dangers, than to become so risk averse that the joy of living is not longer with us.
same here Sarah...same here...
my hunny and i have so many wonderful memories and these kind of tragic events make hunny and I sit back and remember what life is all about...and what is important.
you kinda made me cry on that one.
thanks.
great post.
thank you for this post, Sarah. yesterday and today have been really tough for me (and all of us).
Thanks, everyone. Stay strong.
I read the article yesterday and had the same initial reaction; maybe it is too risky to be out there (on the road).
But as you said (paraphrased) nothing ventured nothing gained. We cannot enjoy life without participating in it. And with that comes risk and reward.
A very sad day in the cycling community, but a day to also remind ourselves of the joy it brings as well.
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