As I was driving home from work I was reminded how much I love this time of year. Yes, it's mildly annoying to have to wait for a lane at the pool or fight the crowds in the weight room between now and Valentine's day (when most folks give up on their resolutions). But there were literally dozens of people out riding bikes today. Which is so awesome. It's normal to see a few every day, weekends more than other days.... but I've never counted this many. Families. Out for a ride together. Folks who've vowed to get in shape this year. Parents who want to spend more quality time with the kids. Cruisers. Mountain bikes. Bikes with kid attachments. Bikes with baskets. Cyclists with full gear. Riders with sweatshirts and tube socks. Everyone is outside enjoying the beautiful weather. I hope it lasts. I would love for everyone to start biking and keep biking. I think people who ride bikes are more aware of cyclists when they are behind the wheel of a car. And it's good for your spirit. How can you be in a bad mood with the wind in your face and the sun on your back? You can't. That's what's so great about riding a bicycle. It's freedom. Freedom to move and live.
I don't make new year's resolutions. But I wish everyone who does success this year. I think it's important to take inventory every once in a while. Make sure that your goals line up with your values and priorities. Take time for yourself. Treasure time with family. Try not to worry about money, work. I have a lot of things I want to accomplish this year... but most of all I want to be a better person. To love more. Laugh more. Enjoy more. Live more. Care more. Baby steps. One day at a time.
As I reflect back on 2009, I've learned a lot about myself and who I am, who I want to be. There's an old quote from Mother Theresa that I think really applies to my last year. God will never give me more than I can handle... I just wish He didn't trust me so much. I think she has a point. We all have a breaking point. And when you are taken to that point, without going past it, you grow and stretch a little bit more. My eyes were opened this year and I realized that I did not ever want to face life without my Skirt Chaser, and that together we can overcome any obstacle. As a result of my awakening, we exchanged our vows a few weeks ago and are living our happily ever after each day. I also learned I'm a lot stronger than I ever gave myself credit for. I can do it. I've got grit. And guts. (I think I can credit my German heritage for that trait.) I'm happy that 2009 is over and the slate is wiped clean. There are new mistakes to make, new lessons to learn, and new obstacles to overcome in 2010. I'm strong. I'm prepared. I'm ready.
Bring it on.
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