"Sun and moon can’t rise at the same time…One must set...to let [the other] rise.” —Khushi
Though I absolutely adore sunsets while out bike riding (see photos), unlike the sun, there is something soothingly captivating in gazing up at a full moon. While roving about the spacious trails of Los Gatos Creek Park, I had the chance to witness the final full moon of 2020 last evening, known as the December cold moon. The nickname “cold moon” is attributed to the native American Indian tribe, the Mohawks that give a nickname to each full moon of the year. The full moon in December is commonly known as the “cold moon” due to the plunging temperatures that begin showing up as winter sets in.
I love how poet Tahereh Mafi metaphorically describes a moon in general. It resonates with me:
“The moon is a loyal companion.
It never leaves. It’s always there, watching, steadfast,
knowing us in our light and dark moments, changing
forever just as we do. Every day it’s a different version
of itself. Sometimes weak and wan, sometimes strong
and full of light. The moon understands what it means
to be human. Uncertain. Alone. Cratered by imperfections."
I felt completely rejuvenated from my bike ride when I left the protected open trails of the park. On the last leg of my ride, someone rode up alongside me and called out my name. It was my son-in-law Kyle’s brother Chip. Apparently, I wasn’t the only nightrider pushing the envelope. He had just finished a ride on Hick’s Road and was headed home as well. Hick's Road is part of an urban legend of being "haunted," but that's a story for another time.
Chip and I stopped to take a “selfie" in front of the El Camino Hospital ER sign. It serves as a reminder that biking can be a bit dangerous even if you're careful, especially at night.
If you enjoy being alive and motivated by the spirit of adventure, you must try to manage your risk. This is why I upgraded to a stronger front white spotlight on my handlebar and a red flashing light at the rear for the occasional night ride.
I invited Chip to follow me on one of my long shortcuts (As my wife Cecile puts it:-) over a pedestrian and cyclists bridge that crosses over highway-85 to get him to his destination. On the way, we stopped on the protected overpass to observe the cars and trucks go whizzing by. Usually, when I am off on a solo ride, my companions are my bike and my iPhone camera. However short my coincidental meeting with Chip on the way home, it was nice to have the company.
