It is late November. Nearly December. SO far from the ride. SO far from anything resembling the training regimen I was undergoing at this time last year. Gosh, at this time last year I was writing donation inquiries, going to spin classes, wondering who was going to take care of my dog and my house, and worrying about the tanking economy.
Sigh.
Now I'm done with the ride. Things are going on at work which are making it essential that I be there quite a bit at the moment. I am not in biking shape right now. I would have a hard time doing that ride if I had to go today. But, on the other hand, I'm really in the thick of my work and that feels good, right, better than tolerable. And that, to be sure, is a fine place to be.
Today I spent time on the phone with someone I do not know, trying to help her find some support for her newly diagnosed cancer. Yesterday I was in the hospital, visiting my little four year old friend, who is dealing with cancer. Another friend has cancer. Another one too. And another.
I'm trying to stay above it, above the fear, above the feeling that it is closing in on me. I'm trying to believe that I can be a supporter and not have it land on me, infuse itself in me. I do believe it. Mostly.
I think about the meaning of the ride for me. I have met many people who have told me that my ride was meaningful for them. I follow a couple of folks whose epic journeys speak to me so I can understand that mine might too. And at the same time, I wonder if it's done. People ask me what is next. I keep saying that work is the important thing for me right now, but their questions make me wonder if I am going to do another big project like the bike ride and if so, what it will be. And when it will be. And if I SHOULD be driving myself toward something.
But right now does not seem like the time. I got a hint the other day that there might be more to this ride for me. I sense it. Feel it hovering even though I don't know what exact form it will take.
Anyway - this is all popping in and out of my waking and sleeping thoughts. And, as usual, I wonder if it matters that I tell you. But just in case it does - here you go.
Happy Thanksgiving.
I hope to say more soon.
With love and in deep appreciation.
Laurey
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
1 comment:
Hi Laurey,
Remember me? Ellen Liotta, now Ellen Kelly.
I saw your name in the UNH Magazine and had to write. We rode from Oregon to St. Louis on a tandem in 2007--following the Lewis and Clark Trail. We also had a blog, with more pictures :). It's http://followingthekellys.blogspot.
com. We didn't ride for a charity, unless you count family bonding as a worthy cause.
Great job on your ride!
My sister lives in Wilmington, NC, so you better watch out, we may knock on your door someday. Really, we should try to keep in touch, though I'm not very good at such things. I'll request that you be my friend on Facebook.
Ellen
Post a Comment