It's like riding a bike...

When I was about 7 years old, I got my first 10 speed. It was canary yellow with a black seat. It seemed so tall at the time, and I felt so small...but what I remember most about that bike was the gears and hand brake. It had a black gear shift on the left of the handlebars and the chain-link would click clack every time I shifted it. The hand brakes were a novelty because before this bike, I'd stop my 'training bike' by pulling back with the foot-pedals.

I loved that bike.

I didn't know how to ride it when I first got if for Christmas that year. It was my first official 'two-wheeler'. However, my Dad was determined to teach me. I couldn't wait.

On the first nice day of that following spring, he took me outside, walking the bike at his side like a proud Dad. He showed me how to mount that yellow bike and he pushed me down the mile long dirt driveway at the front of our house.

I remember the dirt kicking up behind us like smoke as we sped down the long, dusty path. My tires were zig zagging through the thick piles of dirt in front of me. I was apprehensive. I couldn't get my balance at first. I felt like my perch atop that bike was tentative and I'd be spilling into the sandy mess below in no time. I had my Dad at my side, walking as fast as he could to keep up and I knew he would never let go, until I was ready.

The wind was blowing my long hair in my face and I had a hard time seeing where I was going, but I kept going. Eventually, I got it. After a few passes up and down that forever driveway, I was balanced and poised atop the sunny, metal frame. I was becoming more steady as I went and I was pedaling that bike with ease and determination. I was bound for freedom. I was riding like the wind. Then I realized Dad had let go.

As I turned back to check his support, my Dad was a half mile behind me standing and waving his arms with glee at the joy of his only daughter mastering a new skill. So proud if his girl. I felt it from where I was. His joy from watching me succeed. It was in his smile. It was shining in his hazel eyes. His success was balanced by my success.

I remember thinking, I'm doing it! I'm really doing it!

You couldn't stop me after that winning day. I'd wake up extra early to get out to practice riding up and down that driveway before school. I'd rush home after school and practice some more. I mastered the 10 speed bike that spring. I gained some independence as well. It's been at least 20 years since I've ridden a bike but I'm sure I could do it again with ease. You know the old saying..."It's like riding a bike." After all, it was that 10 speed lesson that taught me I could indeed do anything I set my mind to. To this day, I believe that. Thanks to that bright yellow bike and of course, thanks to my Dad.