cycleyogini

The answer to old age is to keep one’s mind busy and to go on with one’s life as if it were interminable. (Leon Edel)

Against all conventional wisdom and the odds, I am re-inventing myself as a scholar at the end of my career and within sight of retirement–beginning with a sabbatical in Hawai’i studying the Hawaiian language and working with 19th century Hawaiian-language newspapers at the University of Hawai’i Manoa. Surprisingly, this adventure includes many different kinds of risk–much like my bicycle trips. And, of course, I am taking a bicycle for transportation!

After many second-thoughts and doubts about health, the career implications of a radical change in research focus, and the obstacles of taking Zander, I took a “leap of faith” and applied for a federally funded research grant. It was a long shot, but the application was fully funded; my last sabbatical before I retire was approved; and my house was rented three days after it was listed. It seemed like the universe was responding with a resounding YES!! On the other hand, my ferritin level dropped to zero, cataracts were diagnosed the week before I was to leave, and a flurry of unexpected work deadlines led to a hectic eight weeks before the departure date. Just because something is meant to be does not mean it will be easy or without obstacles.

And yet lessons learned from bicycle touring have been a source of strength. Since I was renting the house for the year, I used the opportunity to re-think what I really needed both to store while I was gone and to take to Hawai’i. The list has changed since I now have other health considerations and Zander’s well-being to consider; yet it was amazing how much we could give away. On the other hand, the large suitcase, folding bicycle, and kennel plus carry on (a small backpack and ukulele) reminded me of packing for a river trip! The first few days of any trip are filled with excitement, trepidation, and “re-shaping” the body for change (whether the hills of mountains and long miles, noise and bustle of airports, or schedules and patterns of other people and cultures). A sense of wonderment, gratefulness, and laughter transform all of these into life’s lessons.

Our three days with my brother and his family come to an end tomorrow. Zander valiantly tried to woo Roxy, their little dog, but she was having none of him. However, they both tolerated each other in search of treats in the kitchen. The sun was warm and ocean breezes cool in the evening — with three days of rest and time in their pool. A wonderful way to begin the sabbatical and Hawai’i adventure.