If Buddha Rode a Bicycle…National Bike to Work Week

If Buddha rode a bicycle,

he’d begin with a deep breath.

Not just to steady his balance,

but to feel the ground beneath his wheels.

And if he felt the ground beneath his wheels,

he’d remember that we’re all connected

cyclists, drivers, and even the​ deer darting across the path.

And if he remembered we’re all connected,

he’d offer a smile or a wave to a stranger.

Being seen might soften someone’s tough morning.

And if it eased their suffering,

they might say something kind in a meeting.

And if they said something kind,

someone else might feel seen and heard.

If they felt seen and heard,

the ripple effect might lead to lighter hearts all around.

And if hearts felt lighter,

someone might hug their child a little longer,

listen a little deeper,

and laugh a little louder.

And when that child grows up,

she might ripple kindness toward others

have compassion for the tired,

joy for her fellow humans,

and equanimity for life’s unexpected detours.

And those small acts of goodness

might change someone’s day

maybe they’d be a little less rushed,

have a little more grace,

and realize they could put down their phone.

And when they put down their phone,

they’d reclaimed their power.

They’d scroll less.

They’d have more time, more attention, more focus.

They’d be happier.

And all of that…

because Buddha rode his bicycle one morning.

It’s amazing what a bike can do.

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The world would be better with more bicycles. This month is National Bike Month, and next week is Bike to Work Week, which means you don’t have far to ride if you work from home. 😉

In 2001, I nearly lost my life to a distracted driver.

Unfortunately, cycling injuries and fatalities are increasing because we’ve become less attentive behind the wheel due to smartphones, massive dashboard monitors, and, yes, the legalization of cannabis. 

As a result, cycling is three times riskier than driving, and 1000x more dangerous than flying, even when you factor in Newark Airport. This is why I touch my Last Bad Day helmet before every ride. It reminds me that I might not make it home. I accept the risks of my sport, but it doesn’t need to be as risky. 

And I know some cyclists don’t always live by the mantra “same roads, same rules.” But in a country that loves its false equivalencies, when a 7,000-pound Cybertruck breaks the rules, the person on a 20-pound bike doesn’t stand a chance. 

It would serve us well to put down our phones, pump the brakes, and truly pay attention. And not just while driving, it’s how we could live. 

👕👕👕

I’m giving away a small inventory of my world-famous Put Your Phone Down T-shirt to celebrate Bike to Work Week. They are free this week and while supplies last. (Click HERE to grab yours.)

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And finally, in less than two weeks, I’ll announce an incredible new feature on the Pause Breathe Reflect app. One that will help you reduce your unproductive screen time by 30% to 50%​ and reclaim your power over your smartphone. 

The app’s price will increase with this release, but it will still be the most valuable app in the App Store because it will give you back your time, attention, and life.

So today, do something your future self will thank you for: download P.B.R. and join our live practice on Monday. 

Until next week, please pay attention while driving. That cyclist on the road is someone’s dad, sibling, friend, son, daughter, neighbor, or mom, and those who love them want them to come home safely.

And, of course, have fun storming the castle. 

Michael 

P.S. 🩷A note about Mother’s Day: While many celebrate, this day can stir grief, longing, or complicated feelings for those who’ve lost mothers, have strained relationships, experienced infertility, or navigate other personal struggles. Whatever you’re feeling is perfectly okay. Please remember that even in difficult moments, you’re never truly alone. You are loved. 

This post was inspired by the book “When You Give a Mouse a Cookie.”