This past week was tough because it surfaced memories that I would like to forget. I lost weight and energy as the week went by. I just wanted it to be over.
However, this morning as we pedaled along the Scioto River, I dredged up memories of my best builder and dear friend, Larry. These memories I want to forever hold. Thinking about Larry makes me smile and sharing stories with other men that knew this great, big man makes me smile inside and out. Today, a small group of riders reminisced as we rode. The energy we expended pushing the pedals was replenished as we recalled our brother, Larry. I ended the ride feeling great even though my heart hurt in a good kinda way.
Tomorrow, a large group of riders will gather for our 5th celebration of Larry’s last ride. We will head north out of Powell and head up the Scioto River until we turn to the east and on into Magnetic Springs. Once we pedal slowly through Magnetic Springs we’ll turn to the West and slowly to the South. We’ll turn for home. The pace will be conversational. Stories will be told. Memories of Larry will be rekindled.
I’ll mostly sit in the back and take it all in. However, there will be a moment or two where I’ll head to the front and imagine my brother is the only one with me. I’ll picture his titanium frame and his pedal stroke. I’ll imagine the draft as I tuck in behind him and experience the “rumble seat” that’s only possible when you’re the lucky lad in his tow. For a few brief moments my mind will convince my legs he’s “with” me. Effortlessly, I will fly up the rollers and into the village of Ostrander. I’ll pull up beside the big fella and thank him for the pull and then slowly return to the back of the pack where I belong. My eyes may be moist, my legs may tell me I’m toast, but my Spirit will be energized by my time with my brother at the front. Great, big, memories are like that; they fill you up and leave you feeling more, not less.
Thanks, brother for the memories. Thanks again for being with me. Thanks for building me and making me do what I can. Thanks for telling me truth even when it hurt. Thanks, Larry. And, remember, we didn’t say goodbye, big fella. I will see you later Larry. I will see you later…
BUILT TO LEAD 