Leave a tire track, nothing else….

As I wander down the byways of the english countryside, my thoughts are often drawn to those who went this way before me. Literally. I look down and see a soft , fresh tire mark in the trail, and wonder who they are.

Are they just on their way to work and getting in a bit of exercise. Do they love outdoor adventure, or is it just a chore? Man, woman, child, family group? First time out, or thousands of kilometres ridden already this year? Fast or slow, hardcore or casual, fun or serious, what are they out here for?

I see their tracks infront of my wheel, our paths crossing again and again. I am here to escape, to think, to breathe the air and get my own therapy from riding my bike, alone, headspace, mindfulness. What about them?

I rarely see anyone else , but there are always tracks left by those who have been this way before me. We all want to be different, to forge our own path and do something new and original. But I think I am mistaken. We are always following a path that someone else has been on before. But to us it is new, exciting and fills our senses to the brim. I hope they enjoyed the ride as much as I have.

Not far now…or I could add another loop, there is another trail up ahead, the long way round but maybe a bit more time to be out here would be good. Yes why not, just keep going. Until…