Each morning when I hop on my bike and head to work I am never quite sure how my commute will go. Most of the time it is uneventful, I chug along, thinking about the day ahead or I simply take in the sunlight filtering through the trees. There is one thing I can count on each day; it is the highlight of my trip, the gigantic American flag standing guard at the Civil War Museum on top of the hill. Not only does the flag mark the fact that I have made it to the top, it is also my halfway point and my reward, the rest of my commute is downhill. The flag is situated that when I crest, it stands alone, away from the museum and surrounding trees, just the flag against the sky, always peaceful and illuminated by the morning sun.
There is something about that section of the bike commute that gives me pause. Larger than most, the flag inspires me for the day ahead, a little pick-me-up, something that centers me, and I’m grateful; it’s rush hour after all, a time not typically associated with peace.
Sometimes I say a little prayer; sometimes the flag just makes me smile and helps me to focus on the tasks that await me when I get to work. But often, I think of the young woman I read about a few years ago, who reminds me a lot of myself. She likes the outdoors, she likes to exercise and like me, values physical fitness. Unlike me, she is a veteran, and was injured while serving in Iraq. I read that her injuries prevent her from doing many of the things she used to love, especially exercise. That flag reminds me of her, I wonder how she is doing, I often try and send her positive vibes. We don’t know each other, I can’t even remember her name, just her story. But I hope my thoughts help her a little bit. As I pass the flag, I think about how I am grateful for her service and in turn, thankful for all of the opportunities I have that allow me to ride my bike to work.
To see the flag for yourself, visit the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, PA
Go, go, go!
Anne
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