Ride of Silence

Make clear the lane ahead—

flush away these cars

quiet the roar of traffic,

sweep the streets,

ring the bells.

The bicycles are here!

The smooth flow of spokes

advances up the streets and avenues— 

roll out bright ribbons

on the pavement,

let a breath of the wind

be constant from behind,

let the procession be protected

from curbstone to curbstone,

let  chains clicking around cogs

silence engines and seize space.

Summon courage, surge forward.

Turn the crank some more.

Be propelled by grief and memory.

Be powered by hope and resolve.

Let the wheels do their real work,

be prepared to climb.

Set handlebars to the path—   

ride freely, ride fearlessly, ride joyfully.

The bicycles are here!

Make clear the way ahead