Sunday 5 July 2009

good to be on the road

Day 1- Lands End- nr Helston, distance:42 miles, weather:variable, hills:steep, mood:euphoric

A great man once suggested that cycling is the "most civilised form of transport." Today's ride reminded me of the wisdom in these words. Maybe it's something to do with the slowing down that seems to happen mentally, but a space seems to arise in one's awareness allowing a deeper appreciation of one's surroundings. Perhaps it is no surprise that Einstein came up with the theory of relativity while riding his bike one day.

I've drived the roads of west Cornwall many times, usually in high speed pursuit of surf, yet I saw and experienced things today that I simply would never have noticed speeding around on top of my combustible engine. The sweet waft of wild garlic in the damp valley, the rippling wheat bending to the breeze, the curious cows peering over the gate. and of course the ancient stone circle and burial chamber a few dozen paces from the road, build 5 millenia ago yet virtually unnoticed by the 21st century rush.

Feels so good to be on the road, slightly surreal to finally be starting the trip after so much talking,planning and sleepless nights.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

I remember the smell of wild garlic in the lanes round Penberth and also the many stone relics in that area. Happy cycling!