Good to be Green

 

When I think of "green" the image of Kermit the Frog from the Muppets jumps into my mind. A song associated with him, "It's Not Easy Being Green" has these lyrics:

     It's not easy being green having to spend each day the color of the leaves.. it       seems to blend in with so many other ordinary things, and people tend to pass       you over 'cause you're not standing out.  

The desire to stand out, be unique, and be recognized continues as a strong human characteristic. With the plethora of social media platforms, standing out should be relatively easy. Yet, so many postings, pictures, and videos look the same. Could social media be the new "green" which Kermit sings about? With a resounding "NO" posts are ramping up, pushing the limits in risk taking, trash talk, and bizarre activities just to get likes and followers. Going viral and becoming an influencer is the goal.

I recently enjoyed the initial bike ride of 2022. I purchased a new bike in January. It has remained motionless in the garage. I rode my old bike sparingly after October 2021, as I was training for an ultra event on foot. I also did not want my old bike which had been cleaned, serviced, detailed, and polished after Thanksgiving 

The old bike in July 2018

2021 to get dirty. It was going to be posted "for sale" on a few online sites. No need for more than one bike! I enjoyed the sound of gravel crunching under the fat tires. The wind in my face and on my back at various times provided stinging and pushing sensations. Numerous aircraft sounds captured my attention. These prodded me to scan the skies testing my skills of matching the sound to the type of aircraft. My only disappointment was not meeting a friendly dog with whom I had established a relationship during previous rides. Yes, dogs chase bikes. Yes, I have been both nipped at and bitten by canines. However, this particular furry friend enjoys people, attention, being scratched and petted, and striding alongside me for a few yards when we meet. Maybe the next ride will bring our reunion?

The new bike

The many miles covered on foot have provided numerous benefits beyond the physical and mental. Unexpected waves from strangers, whether in vehicles or on foot have boosted my steps. Conversations with strangers on trails and paths have overshadowed the rudeness sometimes experienced from passing motorists. I have met neighbors in the area, as well as established relationships with their four legged fur balls and larger breeds. I have enjoyed the spontaneous laughter, sharing of life events, and expressions of caring during these times. Not every journey includes these happenings. Many times are undisturbed solo hikes. Yet every opportunity to get out on foot or bike is a valuable opportunity

The lyrics of Kermit's song continue:  "green's the color of spring and green can be cool and friendly-like...when green is all there is to be it could make you wonder why, but why wonder why?"

Spring is gaining momentum in the Northern Great Plains. New life, new sights, and new discoveries are part of the season. For me it is what makes this season alive. The times I begin to bemoan being in the statistically last decade or two of my life, I attempt to think green. I want to be imaginative, inquisitive, and awed like someone who is just starting. Being "seasoned" is great for cast iron cookware, but not if it means having my mind made up about life. Being green is not exclusive to recycling. I do not want to reuse past ideas and observations. I prefer to be astonished by what I can incorporate into my life. I want to expand and appreciate each day and each person with whom I have the opportunity to interact. 

It is Good to be Green!