I awoke at 6 a.m. today, to make a pilgrimage, of sorts. I put my beat up Dawes in my car and drove up to the outskirts of Boston for the Sheldon Brown memorial. A good bunch of riders, mostly locals, my guess about 45 riders, met behind the Harris Cyclery. The "leader" left early, because he needed to be back for a part in the service to follow. I hung in with some younger, more fit than I riders. Many were on fixed gear. Some built by Mr. Brown. It was cold, but the camaraderie kept us warm. The route was one of Sheldon's favorite, passing through a wildlife refuge. I finished the ride with two nice young ladies, brevet riders I think, one on a fixie. Got back in plenty of time for the service.
This was one of the most awesome events I ever had the pleasure of attending. The church was packed with the most varied and interesting bunch I've ever had the pleasure of being with. The commonality of having had their lives somehow touched by Sheldon made it seem like everyone was friends, even if they had never met, which of course, many had. But being an out-of-towner who never had the pleasure of meeting Sheldon didn't seem to matter. The community vibe was so sweet and pure, it just blew me away. And the service was a true celebration. Despite the teary eyes, the joy shown through. Friends from Revels sang in sweet and joyful harmonies. The Red Herring Morris Dancers danced. An Acadian French song was sung. Countless reflections from family and friends made us cry, laugh, cry and laugh some more. Sheldon's quotes had us laughing some more. We even sang an Appalachian Round! Then the MIT Chantey Singers led us in song.
I made some new friends, one who promised to look me up at Cirque. I'm sitting here at home, writing this, emotionally drained and thankful I made this journey. It's one I will never forget.
R(ide) I(n) P(eace),Captain Bike.
Mark Hoffman
New Britain, CT
USA