“It isn’t what you have or who you are or where you are or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about it.”
― Dale Carnegie
I think a lot when I’m on the bike. Reflective, as in a shadow’s outline.
In 2020, that process was not always beneficial. Politics, pandemic and my own gloomy thoughts and self-righteous opinions stuck deep in parts of the brain while the limbs and heart were trying to pump out stress and enjoy the view.
On really bad days, I swore sufficiently when alone in the midst of a woods or when I knew no other bikers were near. I tried to squelch primal screams because with my luck, someone would call 911 and say, “I think someone is being murdered.” Then I would have to explain myself to the police officer, being an employee of a government correctional agency. And I would have to explain the “disturbing the peace” citation I received from said police officer to my boss.
This year, I vow, to think differently.
While we’re now in pandemic vaccine mode and the nefarious threats of hate groups and people who wear tin hats are still with us, I am clearly calmer and more peaceful in this new year.
In addressing today’s quote, I have a home, food on the table, friends, family, a needy cat, and a bike.
I am an older, nerdy, tallish woman who takes her faith and chocolate seriously.
I live in the midwest, in a community of several cities and towns and a river running through it, where we shovel snow in the winter and wonder why summer isn’t six months long.
I do many things, from biking to writing to reading to cooking, to volunteering, to laying on the couch and watching mindless TV. My cat cries that I don’t do enough for him, but that’s a story only he can conjure up.
What do I think about all of this?
When I took the first bike ride of 2021 last Saturday, I felt contended. Joyful. Blessed. A little overdressed. A little wet from the melting snow ponds on the trail. Grateful that higher-than-normal temperatures allowed for a February bike ride in Wisconsin (which is super-moon rare).
Other than missing family, friends and hugs in continuation, I have nothing to complain about. Not really. Life could be worse, as I see often online and on the nightly news. Having a chipped nail or headache, cat fur under the bed, food boredom, wearing a mask, or running out of toilet paper at an inappropriate time is nothing. Nothing at all. They are minor annoyances, not awful life-sucking occurrences.
Thinking instead…
I am happy.
I am sound.
I must be.
I am.
Thinking this will be a year when the brain, limbs and heart all enjoy the view and the journey unrestrained, without any curse words or screams.
This post has been brought to you by what I think and Linda Hill’s One-Liner Wednesday. If you are wondering what One-Liner Wednesday is all about, CLICK HERE.
Linda G. Hill is the Queen of One-Liners and rules over her kingdom of followers. Check out today’s post and commit yourself to join the Queen’s one-liner army because there’s no fighting or blood, only comradery and fun with words.
Mary J Melange 
The arrival of spring will certainly improve all of our attitudes so we can be outside more enjoying nature. Taking your first bike ride of the year already is a good sign. 🙂
Judy, I am gladly looking forward to being outside in warmer weather and longer, sunny days. Spring is always rejuvenating!
Reading this first thing today, made me happy. You made ripples! Thank-you.
Susan, glad you enjoyed this post. Ripples and a smile are a good way to start the day.
I think 2021 will be a good year, Mary. You’re going forward with a wonderful outlook. I hope you have many more bike-worthy days.
I’m taking the bike in today for a check-up and new seat in preparation of the bike-worthy days. Friday might be one, Dan. 🙂
Yay!
Perhaps it is the anticipation of spring in a few weeks but my mood has elevated. I am an unrepentant optimist but sometimes that has been difficult over the last 12 months. Now I’m feeling more like myself. The sun is shining the breeze is light and all is good in my world, for the moment.
Pam, you never have to repent over rose-colored glasses. Spring is the optimistic season, the hope of new life from the ground and in our hearts. Have an awesome Wednesday!
You as well my friend!
I think being retired has something to do with it, too. So much stress from work: gone! Now we can enjoy what we have. Good post, Mary.
Thanks Lois. You’re right…retirement has hugely helped with stress. I was thinking about that this morning, how I don’t miss any of it. I only miss the people. 🙂
Ha! I think we have much in common! (Alas I’m married to a man allergic to cats but I’ve owned several and still toy with the idea that if I become a widow I will get another cat). Attitude and perspective can make all the difference in the world (and chocolate).
Soooo…you swear too? 😏😁
Yes, attitude is everything and when it’s a positive one, life is good.
Your perspective is not only comforting, it is also logical, as our friend Mr. Spock would say. We really do have a lot to be thankful for.
True, JoAnna. Live a long, happy and prosperous life!
Peace and long life to you, Mary.
I 100% believe that quote 😀 I am so glad you enjoyed a February bike ride. I was absolutely giddy when I was outside last weekend! I think I’m still riding the wave of that particular gratitude.
I’ve since had my bike tuned up, with a new seat, and went for another ride on Friday. We will both have more gratitude in the weeks to come, Joey, if the nice end of winter becomes a beautiful beginning of spring.
I’m not buying into spring, even though this week’s temps will be in the 60s. I’ve lived here a long time, can’t fool me 😉 However, I will enjoy each warm and sunny day as the gifts they are!