I’ve realized, there are many a times in a secular world, we’ve gone through multiple issues of people facing discrimination, and that is irrespective of any factor. You could see people differentiating with others in terms of materialistic factors, creed, caste and so on. The list could go on. Having a superiority complex is not a new story and has been attached with mankind since ages. Hence, we have scattered groups, friends, communities wherein selected people get together and share their interests!
On the other hand, as I started to ride my wheels, I could see a set of different worlds altogether. I remember buying a ‘not so expensive’ cycle and moving confidently on the road next morning. I encountered a complete stranger who was riding a pretty expensive machine. He was humble enough to reach out to me to pass on a hi and ask me if I was riding towards a specific direction, and that encounter lasted in a long-term friendship, and indeed, one without any condition. That first encounter expanded my horizon to explore more. That is the day, I realized cyclists are not the regular people you meet who would at times discriminate you, demean you, instead this sect of the society helps to uplift you. I’ve seen cyclists help and support the early learners to enhance their cycling performance. I’ve seen my friends helping me repair my puncture on the long rides, not worrying if it takes their extra time. The ride to the snack shops, the healthy discussions etc. are not your regular ones.
This could be a small experience per se but has changed my entire mindset of who cyclists are. This community is not your regular type. This is one sport that has been instrumental in getting people together, getting people healthier, both, physically and mentally, made people explore new places, set new goals and achieve them, stretch their own limitations, increased their creative thinking, and what not! Today, no matter what, I know cycling is here to stay, and for myself, without a second thought, it is here to be for a lifetime!
