Castle Shima

Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.
-- Howard Thurman

Word of caution: I'm in one of those wierd moods again. Granted, that isn't any different from any other day, right? But consider yourself warned.

Speaking of moods, I had been in a decent mood these past few days. Soccer has been great with all the cool weather and everyone has actually been coming out to practice. The cycling training is going pretty well despite my injuries (aka old age). My cousin married her long time boyfriend so things had been busy with family, especially with the ones from out of town.

Then the news came out that cyclist Wouter Weylandt died during today's stage race of the Giro D' Italia (Tour of Italy). Upon reading the articles, all that good feeling just slowly drained away.

I didn't know anything about the man until today. At 26, I saw someone that didn't get to finish what he started. Weylandt got to be a professional athlete, a cyclist, doing a job that he loved. He was making a name for himself in the field. He and his girlfriend have their first child due in Sept.

And just like that, done.

I'm not totally sure why it bothered me so much. I would guess it made me reflect on my own mortality. This kid, practically half my age, has done more than I could ever dream of accomplishing.

But I suppose if I actually took stock of the things, it's not as bad as I think it is. After all, I'm surrounded by friends and family that care about my well being. I have a decent job that, as much as I grouse, I do actually like it, especially since it pays for all my hobbies and habits. I may not be a rock star or a professional athlete, but I don't do too bad.

The world will miss Weylandt, but I think that he will inspire others. Perhaps they will go on and do something with their lives to make the world take notice. Perhaps he's already inspired me to do more.

Keep going forward, push with every bit of ourselves. Else why even bother?

If I Ever Leave This World Alive by Flogging Molly