Cyclist Prayer

With a prayer on my lips, I ride

Before we ask for our needs, we take stock of what we have. Before anything we may pray for, we give thanks:

• that we can ride
  
• that the day is ours to ride
  
• that our family, friends and neighbors can join us
  

Whatever we may ask for, let us first be mindful of what we have. What we have can be taken away.

If we should ask, let us ask for what cannot be bought or sold:

• appreciation of nature's beauty
  
• to hear the music to which all life dances
  
• deep breaths of fresh air
  
• strengthening our heart and lungs
  
• clearing our mind
  
• health
  
• space to face and resolve our inner conflicts
  
• bestowing courtesy
  
• a gentle tread upon our path on earth
  
• pleasant memories as we lie down at night
  

These are the blessings we ask.

It is easier for the cyclist to be humble -- on a bike, all are equal. May we ride enough that we are reminded of this.

When we ride, let us spread good cheer. Not all can ride, so may our good cycling karma flow far and wide. Cycling is a subtle force benefiting the planet.

Lastly, let us not forget those who came before or those to come after. What we enjoy today results from the work of those before us. Generations to come rely on the choices we make today.

May we ride.