I remember when I was young one of my goals was to ride a bike. Now, for some it just comes naturally: finding that perfect control of balance and knowing when to lean and brake. For me it was not as easy. Apparently the young version of me could not grasp the whole balancing concept. Knowing how much it meant to me, my mom decided it was time for me to do it. Instead of using the bike I had had the entire time, she was able to borrow a 1972 Schwinn bike. It was a true blast from the past. She spent a week mentally preparing me for its arrival. According to her this bike was special and easy to ride and learn on.
The day came when my Father unloaded it out of the car. I will admit, next to my BMX bike this was quite the clunker. Noticing my slight disappointment, Mom continued to build up the excitement, and we started our training. Amazingly enough, my Father was able to escape during these intense bike training sessions. Apparently he had to ‘work’; a likely story.
I don’t remember exactly how many days it took, but I do remember the moment – looking back and expecting her to be there, realizing she was half a block away with the biggest smile on her face. What a moment! I was riding all by myself. Nothing could stop me now. The world had just opened up to me.
As I picked myself up off the ground, I realized it was time to work on step 2: Braking! But that was for another day. We had done it, and I was determined to master this two wheeled device in the days to come.
My favorite moment that day was not the riding of the bike (which was awesome), but looking back and seeing the joy, pride, and eminent concern (braking) on my Mom’s face as I rode away from her. It leaves me thinking of the relationship that I have with her. When I was young she was there, keeping me safe from things that could hurt me, teaching, preparing, and guiding me for the road ahead. Now as an adult, I can look back down the street of life and know that she is still there. Rooting for me as my life develops. That’s a special connection that I am so thankful for.
While a common scenario for many, the connection that we have with our mothers is a wonderful part of life and I am so glad we take time to let them know just how special they are to us!
