The Woman on Broadway: One More Reason I Ride a Bicycle

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A senior cyclist rides through a quiet downtown street at dusk, symbolizing connection and awareness.

🚴‍♂️ Real Moments from the Road: A simple bike ride through downtown Lubbock turned into something more when I stopped to talk to a woman holding a sign. This is why I keep riding.

Most days, my evening ride takes me through downtown Lubbock. It’s not that I’m looking for scenery or speed—Broadway is just quiet in the evenings. The traffic thins out, the buildings throw long shadows, and I can ride without thinking too much about cars or chaos.

Tonight, though, something happened that reminded me why I love riding a bicycle more than ever.

As I coasted down Broadway, I noticed a woman standing off to the side. She was older—maybe in her 60s—holding a simple sign that read, “Need Food.” I almost rolled past. A lot of people probably had. But something in me said to stop.

I told her I didn’t have any money on me, but that I could come back. She looked me in the eyes and said, “I don’t want money. I want food.”

She explained that her husband had been in the hospital for over a week following major surgery. During that time, their food stamps were cut off. They were trying to get them reinstated, but right now, they were just… hungry. He was home now, bedbound and recovering, but they had nothing.

I offered to bring her some money anyway. She shook her head.

“I don’t want someone handing me money and leaving thinking I’m going to buy drugs or alcohol,” she said.

We talked for a while. She told me about her husband, about the hard time they’d been having, about how no one had stopped—not a single person—all day. I asked her if that was really true. She nodded.

And you know what? I believe her.

I think people want to help. I think they just don’t see the need until it’s too late—until they’re already past and the moment is gone. Driving in a car is like being inside a moving cocoon. You’re shielded from the world outside—insulated from eye contact, from slowing down, from truly seeing people.

A Simple Thing I Now Carry
That ride through Broadway changed how I prepare. Now I carry a couple of RXBARs—in case someone needs more than I do. They don't melt, they’re packed with real ingredients and protein, and they can bring a little dignity in unexpected moments.
See RXBAR Variety Pack (10‑count)

That’s what cycling gives back to me: the ability to be present. To see what’s around me. To feel the world, not just pass through it.

I told her I’d come back in the morning and take her to Walmart. We'd shop for food. Real food. Not a handout. She thanked me. And as I pedaled home, I felt something that’s hard to describe—something like sadness, like purpose, like gratitude all mixed together.

There’s a lot I love about riding a bike: the freedom, the fitness, the quietness of the road. But more and more, I’m realizing it’s the human moments that stick with me. The stories I hear. The ones I get to be part of.

And this was one of them.

🧰 Want More Gear That Makes a Real Difference?
Don’t miss my roundup of 10 Must-Have Cycling Accessories for Seniors. These are the comfort and safety upgrades I actually use — and swear by.

🧭 Related Posts You Might Like:

🚴 Gear That Keeps Me Riding:
I ride with this RENPHO Bluetooth scale to track my progress and stay motivated. It’s been one of the most helpful tools on my health journey.

🚴 Gear I Personally Use

  • Renpho Smart Scale
    Lost 17 lbs since buying — motivating and full of great info.
    👉 See the One I Have
  • Giro Fixture MIPS II Helmet
    My most important piece of gear — a must-have for every ride.
    👉 Lots of Colors
  • Outdoor Cooling Arm Sleeves
    I wear these every ride to protect my skin from cancer.
    👉 Check Price
  • Cosmos Cooling Leg Sleeves
    I had cancer cut off my leg — I refuse to have more problems and wear these now.
    👉 See Them
  • Przewalski Bib Shorts
    I have multiple pairs — more comfortable and last longer.
    👉 See Them
  • Premier Protein Shakes
    I drink one after every ride — low sugar, high protein.
    👉 Amazon Price

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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