How can it be that
after so many years
all those miles
half a lifetime willingly paid over
I can still forget that
after so many hours
all those words
hollowed out by all the hiding
I can repair all that
after just a moment
stolen from reality
with this magical machine.
And I am thankful that
after each forgetting
it is there to remind me
and pick me up again.
Missed a couple of days on the bike this week owing to poor weather and work commitments. Felt awful, darkness closing in etc. Went for a ride yesterday and things got themselves back into some kind of balance. Can’t understand why that surprised me; or why I so easily forget that, very often, that’s all it takes. Yes, I’m obsessed, and should probably be worried that my mental state is so bound up in whether or not I’ve managed to get out today. But I am absolutely certain that the bike has saved me from seeking solace in things that would be a lot worse for me; and I am so grateful to it for finding me all those years ago. (The pic is my much-loved Brompton outside the church in La Chapelle-au-Mans, Burgundy, on a very hot day back in June.)
Gonecycling (again) 
Good for you Nick, and good for the bike! Take care of yourself. Best wishes, John
Thank you, John – your kind words are very much appreciated. We were in France last month to collect our daughter at the end of her year’s study in Aix-en-Provence and stopped off for a few days in Burgundy on the way home. We’re fortunate enough to ne going back over next week for our summer sojourn on the beach in Brittany, en famille for the first time since 2019. Can’t wait (and yes, I will be taking the bike!) Hope all’s well with you and yours. N.
My bike has rescued me many times over the years…I fully understand…much cheaper than a psychiatrist and probably safer. 🙂
Thank you, Charles – hope you’re keeping well.