thank you so much for the comments, tweets, messages, calls, and emails regarding the accident. it’s been 96 hours since then and I am significantly better. still sore, healing, and feeling a bit off (slow?), but so thankful for the quick recovery.
before the accident, but since moving here, when I was out riding my bike, on a run, or simply walking down the street, I would think to myself, “there are so many people in this city that we are bound to bump into each other from time to time.”
there should be t-shirts made that say, “get out of my way”, and truthfully, I’d want to wear one when I’m stuck behind someone looking at his or her iPhone shuffling aimlessly on a crowded street corner when the walk signal turns green.
but I’ve also been that person on my iPhone. so that gives me sympathy, understanding, and maybe a little more patience, right? depending on the day…
the “get out of my way” mentality isn’t constant. there are days and times when I get from point A to point B with ease. but last Thursday morning, I experienced the other end of it directly. the good news is that the cyclist, a handful of witnesses, the ER nurse & doctor, the dentist, his assistant, each of you, my family and friends now know another account of a collision, and hopefully we can all be a little bit more aware.
I woke up yesterday, 72 hours after the accident, and I was feeling pretty good. it was gorgeous outside and I decided to go on an experiment ride with Billy. my sore, creaky knees actually felt a whole lot better on a bike than sitting on my couch.
so we headed north on the West Side Highway with plans to ride Central Park if I was feeling up to it. throughout the ride, I was acutely aware of everything happening around me, and I paid attention to the plethora of signs telling all of us what to do.
Mom, these photos were taken while dismounted from my bike in a safe location.
left: on the West Side Highway stopped at a red light. right: so many signs!
guidelines. rules. laws. all set in place to protect us and keep us unharmed. do we follow them, or are we just out for ourselves, on a mission to get there?
as strangers, how can we protect & respect each other? what happens if we slow down? I know that is a far-fetched notion in a place like NYC, and one of the things I love about Manhattan is the fast-paced energy and adrenaline, so my final thought is that self-awareness, patience, and consideration for others are paramount.
there were times yesterday when I was borderline terrified that someone might hit me, or that I’d collide with another biker or pedestrian. a gorgeous Sunday in Manhattan is going to be incredibly congested, but I love this city, and I’ll be back out there everyday riding my bike and running because I cannot live sheltered in fear.
back to some lighter posts this week, okay? be on the lookout for a giveaway!
hope your week is off to a great start,
Wow. How many times must we ALL pass those signs, warnings, labels, etc and never once actually “see” them for what they are — a warning sign, a reminder to be aware, present, cautious. SUCH a good reminder to all of us – to keep our eyes wide open and present. Continue to heal my friend, sending you lots of love and hugs!
Jess recently posted..Mindful (not mindless), intentional (not aimless)
thank you for the love & hugs! I know that has helped keep my spirits up and it means the world to me.
So glad you’re starting to heal and so glad you got back out there. You’re right, you can’t live in sheltered fear. Life is too short for that. Hugs!
thank you, Heather! I can’t sit still and stay indoors – it’s not my style.
feeling good, and getting a lot of sleep. I know that has helped a lot.
<3 atta girl, strong Bird.
have a wonderful Monday!
Kris recently posted..thoughts and things
thanks, Kris! besides a lingering headache, I am really am feeling pretty strong. these knees might not want to run for awhile, but biking and walking will do for now. and headstands. always.
I was sad to read of your last post about your accident… The cyclist that hit you shouldn’t have been riding so super speedy when there’s so many people out walking/running/cycling. Hopefully he’ll learn to slow down a bit. I do have to say that reading this brought back a flood of memories from my childhood, having been hit and run over by a cyclist and the pain in the days that followed as I healed.
I’m glad today was a better day for you and you were able to get back outside for some fresh air for a bit! You are so right – can’t live life in sheltered fear. Hang in there, sending you lots of hugs!
thank you for your thoughtful comment, Angela! I’m sorry for the accident you were in as a child – it’s traumatic, right? everyday is getting better, and I appreciate all of the well wishes and hugs so much. keeps my spirits up!
Oh I’m so glad you’re back out there on your bike because I think – depending on how you’re feeling physically, obviously – it’s probably the best way to avoid being afraid. You just have to get back out there – but with this new awareness as well. I am full of admiration for you Dorrie – for finding inspiration and positivity in things so quickly.
thank you so much, Petra! I appreciate your comment so much. I agree with what you said here – getting out there is the best way to avoid the fear and keep on living a fulfilling life.
Wow. Talk about getting back on the horse so soon after the accident. I am impressed and respectful ever so much! You are not only spreading awareness, you are facing any fear you may have (rightfully so!!) from the collision. I am so glad yoy are feeling better!! XOXO
jobo recently posted..A blissful weekend…in pictures.