A Pat on the Helmet

There’s a road near me that’s perfect for cyclists—well, it’s perfect if you like grinding uphill.

It’s common for younger men to pass me. It’s also common for them to look over at me in my gray braids and say Good job! in a parental way—like I’m a 5-year-old who just took off my training wheels.

I’m sure they think it’s encouraging, but they only do this with older women—and it truly does sound patronizing.

I usually respond with a serious, adults-speaking-to-adults voice, It’s a tough hill, isn’t it? … always hoping they’ll use adult conversation next time.

Photo by Margaret McDonald