It’s Scary at First. But, You’ve Gotta Ride Through it.

I was scared at first. But, at 08:30 sharp I jumped on my bike. Sure, I was rusty, but the Meetup did say: All female cycle group. Beginners welcome.

I rode two miles to the meeting point, so didn’t have time to overthink it. To be fair, I was too busy staying alive. (Perhaps a tad bit dramatic, considering there wasn’t much cars on the road).

Anyway, I made it in one piece and spotted a few ladies already waiting. I’m pretty good with spontaneous chat. So I hopped off my bike and introduced myself.

Then I heard myself and the awkwardness set in. But, the ladies were warm, and encouraging when I shared I was a beginner.

Soon after, we set off on our 16-mile bike ride, I got chatting to another beginner. That little connection reassured me in a not-the-only-one, sort of way.

A little further on, another lady started playing old skool music on her boombox.  Before I knew it, Faith Evans, Brandy and Alicia Keys had put me completely at ease.

The route itself was gorgeous, winding past some stunning scenery.

Time flew by.

It’s wild to think,  I almost didn’t show up.  But 16 miles later, lively conversation, good tunes and snorty belly-laughs (plus comedic-level tips to deal with chafing bums and private parts).

I felt seen.

And something else too:  like I belonged.