Maryam and Her Bicycle: A Love Story

Though I have only had a relationship with cycling for two years or so, it has been transformative and multifaceted. Most obviously, I would say that I am dependent on cycling. I have a heavy reliance on my bicycle for transportation within the city of Santa Cruz, whether it be school, work, a friend's house, or an errand. I find there to be a lot of unpredictability and impulse in my schedule. For this, buses and I are incompatible. I depend on my bicycle so much because our schedules are always coordinated - except during times of mechanical failure, in which case, my reliance is made all the more apparent. 

I also rely on cycling for my health. Student life demands a lot of idle time, so it really helps if I can squeeze small windows of exercise into my schedule on my way to school and in between classes. As a society, I think we are out of touch with the lower halves of our bodies. I really appreciate being more in tune with muscles I otherwise would have neglected. Even better, cycling works harmoniously with yoga and running and contributes to an overall sense of health and well-being. 

This brings me to the mind. During times when my bicycle is inoperable, my state of mind is quickly affected. The repetitive motions of cycling compiled with the humming of the chain, deep breathing, and fresh air make it very easy to meditate. Having periodic bouts of meditation worked naturally into my daily schedule helps keep me calm, focused, energized, and capable of going about my work load. Being on my bicycle also keeps me social and engaged with my surroundings, be it people, dogs, sounds, smells, etc.. I have found that this makes me a much happier person in general. 

While I really cherish cycling for these reasons, I regret that it makes me so vulnerable. Even if I have a helmet, lights, reflectors, and bright clothing, I know I can still be mangled by a distracted driver. Though I have never been seriously injured on my bicycle thus far, I have had a host of near death experiences. The majority of my friends who use their bicycle as their primary mode of transportation have been hit by a car, some multiple times. While every mode of transportation presents serious dangers, I feel particularly exposed to the elements on my bicycle. A constant awareness of this makes my relationship with cycling bittersweet. Regardless, I stand by my decision to bike.

More than anything, my relationship with cycling is generative and inspiring. It has challenged me to reach goals I never would have considered before two years ago. Though the community of experienced cyclists and mechanics in Santa Cruz can be at times intimidating, a genuine love of it all has encouraged me to go for the longer bike excursions and ask questions regardless of silly and inexperienced I may sound. I have put a few of my friends on their bicycles, and I hope to recruit more. I am excited to see myself bike further, acquire more knowledge, work better, and sway more drivers to make the switch as my relationship with cycling continues to evolve. 

Maryam Mirahmadi