Things like this make me wonder what's wrong with humanity: http://onelescar.blogspot.com/2009/12/what-hell-is-wrong-with-people.htm...

But I have hope that through the simple act of biking, I can help regain some of this humanity that we seem to have lost.

I've been riding a bike pretty much as soon as I learned to walk, but this year more than ever I've been a little obsessed. Learning everything I can about how my bikes works, riding it as much as possible, advocating for alternative transportation, and helping other people ride safely have become passions of mine.

Biking is more than just a way to stay in shape and save money. Every morning I hop on my bike, I'm making a statement about how I choose to make an impact on the world around me. Environmentally, socially, and politically.

I'm resisting the stereotypes that the only people who bike to work are people who can't afford cars and people who've had their licenses taken away. Biking is something that almost everyone can do, but our society has restricted it to the margins and set unrealistic expectations that we should all be clean, primped, and impractically-dressed when we arrive somewhere. In short, I'm resisting the consumerist values that restrict us from our human potential.

As a woman, I'm challenging the system that wants me to stay safe at home. I recognize that biking is inherently dangerous, but I've never been afraid to ride my bike around campus at night and if something breaks, I usually know how to fix it. The self-sufficiency and sense of freedom I have gained are unbelievable.

More than anything, I've learned to be aware of my surroundings. There's a code of courtesy among cyclists and pedestrians that's threatening to disappear, because we're so accustomed to isolating ourselves and fighting just to get by. I don't want to fight with cars or pedestrians, but so often I'm forced to defend myself either in arguments or physically, as a result of someone's distraction while on the road. By riding a bike I've become more aware of details, patterns, and behaviors in my environment that have helped me live actively rather than passively.

This is why I'm really excited about things like the Peddler’s Paradise Cycle Shop in Charleston, WV (see previous blog post). Not only are they making cycling more accessible for everyone, but they are simultaneously building independence and community. For me, biking is about breaking down barriers and becoming human again.