Tom’s rheumatologist wrote me two words on a sheet of note paper: Wabi Sabi. I had no idea what that was. She was offering the idea to my husband but handed me the paper. My inquisitive mind wanted to know.
According to AI overview Google search,”Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic and philosophical worldview that finds beauty in imperfection, transience, and natural simplicity…” That’s only part of the finding but the rest, to me, is worth reading.
That seems to be the underlying meaning of this blog, a blog I’ve been writing off and on since April 2010! I’m ignorant of the Buddhist philosophy or tenets. Yet this represents a philosophy I’ve been practicing most of my life.
I enjoy biking, even now with few buds or blossoms or leaves. Once spring progresses, all those will come.
My wabi-sabi sees beauty in a gravel trail, grass turning green and an early-morning, cold ride as a GREAT start to the day. Yes, those are gloves on my seat. This morning was warm in comparison to what many, many mornings have been so far this year. Despite the weather, I found myself involuntarily smiling from ear to ear as I rode across the parking lot to get onto the trail.
Isn’t it great to enjoy and appreciate what is? That outlook solidifies my contentment and fulfillment. I really DO appreciate the simple pleasures and gifts life provides. Like enjoying a sunrise, a sunset or a bike ride, life presents itself in the moments. Not always the way we expect or want. Not always at the timing we prefer. Yet the moment is all we all have. We cannot change the past or the future. We CAN enjoy the moment. We can do what we feel inspired and motivated in that moment to create the future we envision.
I envision a season of bliss as I ride on the trail. My first real ride of 2026 was shorter and 9 minutes slower than last year, but that’s okay. I’m starting where I’m at and enjoying the journey. My hand brace bothered me a bit after the ride but the support prevented the issues I faced for the last 1 1/2 years after a fall and torn ligament. Yes, I’m slower. Sometimes slower isn’t so bad. Feeling the fresh air and joy over riding again fuels my passion and enthusiasm.
Thoughts?
