i should be dead: an explanation.

Usually when I fall off, I get right back on. Even after getting in two bad accidents this past year, I still did not hesitate to get right back out there. It's the one that didn't get me that got me the worst. "I should be dead." That was about a month ago. That's about how long it took me to get over it. Late night. Washington Ave. Look both ways before you cross. I did. Look one more time. SHIT. For whatever reason, I did look again and found an SUV charging towards Atlantic. I swear I felt the wind from the side view mirror as it blew by my face. The SUV skidded for about a block afterward. I returned home, shaken and stirred. One inch and I would be dead. No doubt. People drive like lunatics in the city. It doesnt matter how safe you are. Helmets wont save you from a hit like that. Somebody will be sweeping up your helmet, blinking light and reflective jacket after you get hit by a vehicle at that speed. Needless to say, I havent been on my bike for awhile. It's an event that sends chills down your spine every time you think about it. Like when you are walking and you take one step off the curb only to find yourself face to face with the side of a bus. By all counts you know you should be dead.

The weather here isnt great now. Ice. sleet. snow. I have been out a few times. I hit an ice patch the other day but it's not the same. When you ride in the elements it's expected. I guess when you ride out here it's all expected. The minute you forget that, it might be the last time you forget.