Love is a Bicycle Ride
A good ride is slow, smooth, and well-balanced.
Being in love with you is like riding a bicycle.
The first time I see you in your natural glory is when you are quietly spending time with yourself (looking at a bicycle in a showroom or at your friend’s place).
I meet you through someone (a salesperson or a friend showing off the bicycle). We shake hands and have a short conversation; the experience is enthralling (holding the handle of the bicycle and riding it for a short distance while someone holds it from behind).
I slowly muster the courage to talk to you on my own; I choose my words and take care that you have a good time (slowly riding the bicycle and immediately keeping the feet on the ground in case of imbalance). I hold your hand and walk with you (feel my grip on the handle and my feet on the paddle while slowly riding). I then try to get closer to you, understand you, celebrate occasions together (racing with friends, going on long rides in the city and along the mountain ranges, filling air in the tyre, carrying it on my shoulder, etc.).
Gradually I start taking you for granted and become egoistic and selfish (neglecting proper maintenance, trying different stunts and speed limits).
One day I argue, and we fall out, we lose the balance in our relationship. It hurts for many days (bicycle isn’t in good condition, and I fall due to losing my balance).
I understand my mistake and make amends (I get the repairs done and the bicycle now looks and feels brand new). I do whatever it takes to start afresh and feel grateful when you agree (start riding with those wounded knees even though it hurt a little, but it feels good).
With time, you’ve become a part of me, and wherever I am, you’re always there to take me forward in life, which is why I can never stop loving you (one always remembers how to ride a bicycle after one learns).
