Zen and the Art of Kung Fu Bicycle Riding
Any punter of the peloton who has experienced the despair of Gran Fondo failure will, at some point in the process of heart-wrenching reflection, embark on a journey to find “the zone”. If you’ve never been to “the zone” you clearly need to get out more. It’s a place where the mind, body and spirit merge in some magical moment of what can only be described as Kung Fu cycling.
There are five noble truths about cycling, told us that day: “To cycle is to suffer. Your ego is at the heart of all suffering. To end suffering you must immerse yourself in the present moment. The path to the present moment is to be found on the bicycle.”
A Zen teacher saw five of his students returning from the market, riding their bicycles. When they arrived at the monastery and had dismounted, the teacher asked the students, “Why are you riding your bicycles?”
The first student replied, “The bicycle is carrying the sack of potatoes. I am glad that I do not have to carry them on my back!” The teacher praised the first student, “You are a smart boy! When you grow old, you will not walk hunched over like I do.”
The second student replied, “I love to watch the trees and fields pass by as I roll down the path!” The teacher commended the second student, “Your eyes are open, and you see the world.”
The third student replied, “When I ride my bicycle, I am content to chant nam myoho renge kyo.” The teacher gave praise to the third student, “Your mind will roll with the ease of a newly trued wheel.”
The fourth student replied, “Riding my bicycle, I live in harmony with all sentient beings.” The teacher was pleased, and said to the fourth student, “You are riding on the golden path of non-harming.”
The fifth student replied, “I ride my bicycle to ride my bicycle.” The teacher sat at the feet of the fifth student and said, “I am your student!”