Gearing for the Journey

A few days ago, I was pleasantly surprised to see a video on YouTube. The caption caught my interest: 

                                                                                          "Pope Leo XIV blesses ...the Giro d' Italia..." 

How exciting to see the colorful bicyclists, well over a hundred, doing what they love: bicycling! Wondering what nationalities they represented, what kind of training they underwent, did they keep hydrated, would their legs cramp at the final lap...? How did they feel? Were they already exhausted, or just getting 'geared up'? What kind of planning had their race, this event and this particular moment taken?

How did they feel as they rode through Vatican City and the Vatican Gardens? What did they feel as they stopped before Pope Leo XIV? In a few moments on this day, but perhaps one experience that they might revisit in the days or years ahead, they lined up perfectly, to receive a Papal Blessing. No shoving, just beautiful symmetry. 

Seeing four bicyclists stand near Pope Leo XIV, I observed and reflected on two. One was smiling widely...one was looking at Pope Leo XIV seriously. I wondered: What were they thinking? 
Did they speak his language? Did they understand his words and the enormity of the situation in their journey? What was their final destination in the race? Where was home afterwards? 

                                                                                                        and, I remember 'back in the day'...

 
In my youth and adulthood, I tried to ride a bicycle. I could never quite accomplish this skill...I learned through many attempts and falls that I lacked a certain coordination (mental or physical) to pedal and to stop. On one occasion, I purposefully rode into a garage door so I could stop and jump off! 
 
I smiled to see the bicyclists. They inspired me to get back on my seat: as a writer! Now, journaling, writing stories, composing poetry, writing reflections...yes, I can do this! Fortunately, I am willing to learn to use and 'cycle' up my skills. I’ve also learned many times, that I can’t accomplish what I set out to do solely on any merit nor just by myself.  
 
Life is one long journey, full of ups and downs; filled with colorful vistas; occasionally stopped momentarily or completely by obstacles in our path. But, oh, what joy when we pick ourselves up, renewed with faith, hope, trust and determination for good. When we start anew. 

For your reflection: What do you enjoy? What accomplishments are you searching? What motivates you? Who or what is your guide? 
 
 
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