People in smaller towns seem to take more pride in their municipality than people in cities do. Townfolk mostly know each other and their histories. It is harder to be anonymous in a small town. Perhaps they are more invested in their relationships and common experiences. Perhaps they are better able to identify with their neighbors. They certainly seem to have more time for hospitality and visitors. When we arrived in Globe, Arizona I was lucky enough to experience small town living. The firemen arranged access and talks with two high schools. We were given meals, motel accommodations for the night, and advise for the road. I met the mayor, chief of police, town executive, and the counsel. Every community would be better if it's citizens knew each other were equally invested in their municipality.
Today was a 79 mile rolling pedal through Apache country. Moe and Roscoe are still with me through tomorrow. Moe blew a tire, but we makeshifted a repair using an old tube. We pounded into a headwind for about 60 miles. The roads were much safer than yesterday, but my legs are asking for a rest day. They will have to wait for another 2 days and 5000 feet of climbing.
Dr.Bob,
ReplyDeleteI marvel at your eloquence of writing. Each day brings a new experience...the small town feelings of hospitality, the dangers and uphill battles you face during your ride, the speaking of distracted driving, and all the beauty that surrounds you. I look forward to your daily post and your words that inspire us all! Blessings
I second Sandra on your writing and was just talking about it with the gals at the office. You have a gift for writing. I also look forward to your daily posts, photo's and summary of the town you land in and it's people. Will be praying for strength for the next few days as you push toward your next rest day. I'm so proud of you! With love.
ReplyDeleteHey now bro
ReplyDeleteHow do the kids react to your message and experience? When my legs hurt, I think of you. Legs and butt of steel and the rest you must feel like a girly man in comparison. As you must have heard we were all relieved to hear from Ryan. Those poor people in Japan! Seems like no matter who you are, no matter where you are life can yanked away. To take a life because of careless acts, something we have a choice over, is murder. It is murder by indifference.
The bridge people, interesting, I like it. It sounds more personable than transient or homeless. About five years ago Cal Trans evicted several groups of bridge people that had removed some access panels and were living within the freeways. They had generators, little heaters, burners, small pieces of furniture. It was impressive how the bridge people adapted, survived.
ReplyDeleteYour words have been inciting and as the list of followers grows, day by day I am encouraged that people will do more than just follow ... they will act. Today I printed out letters, stamped and addressed some envelopes and handed them out to friends and family whom are also supportive of the cause but like so many have not acted. I hope the letters find themselves in the mail to Sam Blakeslee.
Pedal on Dr Bob.