Turning of the Season

Cool misty mornings as we are out for our morning rides remind me that summer is winding down and the riding season is waning.  In an ordinary year that might turn me wistful, thinking of rides not taken and the dwindling opportunities to get out on the road.  But this is not an ordinary year, and the turning of the seasons heightens my excitement as I anticipate my return to Israel to experience the Land yet again from the seat of my bike. 

The summer has indeed sped by.  We had some time away, but it never feels like enough.  It seems as though the pace of the things did not slacken as we always hope for summer – perhaps it is the political season; maybe kids in transition… who knows?  But I got a lot of riding in.  I do not feel as pressured in my training as I did when I last prepared for the Ride – probably because it was such an unknown last time.  As challenging as it is to ride 300 miles in a week - in the desert -  I know now that I can do it.  I am feeling strong and confident… and inspired.

Inspired…  I have become a bit more literate in using social media this year (mostly that means Facebook), and I have tracked the adventures of other riders whom I know.  Serene Victor, the former director of education at our synagogue, and a few years older than me, became a cyclist in her retirement.  She did the Israel Ride last year, and this year just completed the Hazon Cross  Country Ride.  Ten weeks from Washington state, to Washington, D.C., raising money and consciousness about sustainable agriculture.  How cool is that??  Definitely on my bucket list! 

A little closer to home, a bit darker, but no less inspiring, we have had several friends stricken with illnesses over the last 6 months or so.  I am pleased to say that each of them is recovering, but their courage and strength in the face of challenges so much greater than anything a tough bike ride can throw at you has made me ever more grateful for the opportunity to get out each day and ride.  Pete Erines, an old friend from our days working at McLean, and my riding friend and Israel Ride icon, David Eisenberg both waged courageous battles with cancer this spring and summer.  Both are recovering. Pete is back to work and David is even talking about the Ride as a possibility for this year.  They have been blessed with good care, support from family and friends and a measure of luck. 

It is the season of blessings.  As we approach Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, it is a time for introspection.  Our troubles seem minor when viewed against the world of hunger and need; our goals and aspirations perhaps trivial when held against the example of those who do great things… but we each have an opportunity make our mark.  I don’t have any illusions that my participation in the Israel Ride is going to bring peace in the Middle East, but if the dollars that I raise, and more importantly the message of co-existence and collaboration I can spread can help bring us a little closer, then I will be truly blessed.

L’hitra-ote (see you soon),

Lester