I have to be in the present when riding for safety's sake. I can't dwell too long looking back in the side mirrors or I'll fall.The side mirror provides a distorted view of what I already passed. Yep, when I dwell on the past, my ego distorts issues.
Looking in the mirror makes you realize that what's past is out of your control. It's gone.
Scoping the upcoming terrain is beneficial for safety's sake. But I can't dwell on it too far in advance or I might miss the pothole a few feet in front of me. When I ride in the mountains, the curves make my teeth grind because I can't see as far ahead as I wish I could. Lesson: Sometimes you have to act on Faith and proceed cautiously.
When I scope upcoming terrain I look for potential hazards and preplan ways out if needed. But I wouldn't preplan my reaction to something that might happen 200 miles away; I don't know what the terrain or conditions are. So why do I insist on planning or worrying about things 5 years in advance? Little plans for near future is okay. Just remember they need to be fluid to adjust to changes in the terrain.
I am in control. Nobody's opinions, criticisms, thoughts, etc. etc. keep my bike on two wheels on the road. Sure, external forces like bad drivers or weather conditions can influence my ride but ultimately it's my reaction and my control that keep me upright. So why did I often let others' opinions, etc. influence my life? If I lose focus, I feel the impact i.e. dropped the bike and fell into that depression. Reminder: I'm in control.
Sometimes those external conditions become a bit much and you need to pull off the road. It's wise to recognize when it's time for a little break. Sometimes you need a helping hand. Nothing wrong with that. False pride has no room on the road....open road or road of life.
Value those you meet along the way. You never know what you'll learn. Sometimes you'll be routed to good places to eat, safe havens, or people you need on your current path.
Value those you meet along the way. You never know what you'll learn. Sometimes you'll be routed to good places to eat, safe havens, or people you need on your current path.
Take the time to look at the beauty around you. Enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and feel the wind. It passes fast and can only be enjoyed in the moment before it's just a blip in the mirror.I feel stronger when I'm on my bike. I feel in control. If I start to doubt or my mind wanders or my emotions are low, my riding is impacted. Anyone looking could see that my bike is drifting or my turns are choppy. So why would I think that these same emotions don't negatively impact my life off the bike?
I should apply those bike muscles to life off the bike. Or atleast remember that there is NO reverse button on my bike (or life).
wow, good lessons from a metal machine lady. I know the hubby was riding most of the day. Down in Joliet and Lockport he likes to take the back roads. I know it always calms his nervous and sets things straight for him. thanks for the lessons, I'll be remembering these. It seems you are very open to all that can teach you. good spot to be in.
ReplyDeleteHere is some info on beginners carving kits. Woodcarverswarehouse.com has a set for $26.50 and woodcarvers.com has two different sets one for beginners and one for kids. They both are $36.50 I like the beginners set for 36.50 as it comes with a strop and stropping compound to keep the knife sharp. I haven't ordered from either place. The place I normally order from is the woodcraftshop.com but they don't have any beginner kits. Some of these people recommend a kevlar glove which they sell for about $10, that might be a good idea. And don't forget the band-aids.
ReplyDeleteLaura: Remind me to send you my address. So if the hubby is ever riding this way and finds he needs assistance or a pit stop.
ReplyDeleteAudrey: Cool! Thanks for researching these and yep I'll get a glove for him.