The Bicycle Is A Curious Vehicle. Its Passenger Is Its Engine.

Submitted by Laura Thomas on Mon, 07/20/2009 - 10:24

In a moment of self-clarity last August, I bought myself a bicycle. I had an epiphany of sorts that a bicycle was the answer to warding off the panic attacks, sidewalk rage and roommate abuse that I was suddenly experiencing. All in all, it’s been a great idea. There’s something to huffing and puffing your way down the Hudson River and dodging kamikaze cabs in the West Village that really puts it all into perspective. When I’m on my bicycle I at once feel six years old again as well as the master of my own destiny. It takes me out of the flow of city life, which can often feel like a tidal wave.

When we signed on Every Monday Matters as a client, I’ll admit it took me a bit to really understand what the organization’s co-founder Matt Emerzian had in mind. But as I somewhat begrudgingly climbed on my little blue bike last Monday, I experienced a second epiphany. By making a commitment to ride my bike to work at least twice per week (lightening permitting), I am making an actual difference in my life and the lives of others. I find that I am far more pleasant to be around when I commute via bike. And I generally feel refreshed and energized, albeit a little bit sweaty. So, I have a renewed commitment that if the weather cooperates I’m going to get on that bike every Monday. Because it matters.