Reader story: The Tiniest Bright Spot (a poem about riding in January)

This poem was submitted by reader and St. Johns resident Jamie Caulley. I think it captures the challenge and the beauty of riding through Portland winters. Read it below the jump…


The Tiniest Bright Spot
by Jamie Caulley

January —
The darkest time of the year
the rainiest month
the post-holiday sluggishness —
a bike commuter’s biggest challenge

Festive Christmas light brightened my December commutes
now gone

Leaves, vanished from the trees
dissolved into lingering dark mush on the road

Bitter darkness surrounds me
Blindly, I bang into multiplying potholes

Winter wind whips through barren trees
the only sound

My rides, lonely
lack vigor

Early on an ordinary Thursday
surprised by an unexpected break
a lack of resistance from the air
I begin to ride in a comfortable rhythm
finding a grey, but clear, view of the Willamette
No rain pelts my face

Today, the pavement is partially dry
Gaining positive energy, I stand up on my pedals
increasing my cadence
Spring-like air rushes past my cheeks
I relish it
Still cool, still moist
But noticeably a few degrees warmer

My usual winter route skirts Grant Park
The cloud break allows just enough light to safely ride through
Pedaling down the path between old maple trees
I recognize I am not alone
something else is enjoying this tiny change in the weather
a songbird

Nearing the office,
I feel ready to start work for the first time in a long while
I remember the reason I ride

Too early for long sun-filled days
six more weeks of winter struggle
somehow easier this morning
allowing the tiniest bright spot of hope
that spring would soon return

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