A Special Place

There is a special place in my heart for bike shop owners.

For most, it’s a hardy road/path they ride; full of risk, danger, adventure and friendship.

Pushed by a personal love for their own bike experience, they set off to share their truth of what makes life great and worthy. For some it’s to do it better, for others to do it different, and for all to just do it.

To own a bike shop, and live the dream.

The love and passion ebbs and flows.

Competition is tough, much tougher than any three week tour or off road century. Everyday they compete with other specialty shops, big box stores, the internet, etc.

In my travels, I get to meet with them personally. Sometimes, at the end of the day I feel like I’m greeting them at the top of a brutal climb. Other times, early in the morning, they have a sense of warming up and readying themselves for a challenging day in the saddle.

Call me sentimental, but I really do pray for their survival. I hope for their success.

May they have the courage to make it to the next smiling child getting a first bike, the next adult sharing how their health has improved.

If you share this sentiment, stop by your local shop and give that man or woman a hug. Send an anonymous thank you note. Buy a gift card to the local restaurant for them and their family to enjoy.

Trust me, they need a little love. Today.