An Ode to the Overnighter (Poem)

An Ode to the Overnighter

A foolproof way to make life brighter,
Is going on an overnighter.
Whenever I feel in the mood,
I grab some camping gear and food.

I strap it to my racks and bars
And pedal off away from cars,
And lights and noise and city life,
And all the things that cause me strife.

And let the rhythm of the pedaling,
Stop my brain from mindless meddling.
I take deep breaths and notice more,
That I would oftentimes ignore.

Grateful for the right to roam,
To get outside and leave my home,
And carry everything I need,
Upon my rigid 90s steed.

To spend the night beside a stream,
And drift away into a dream.
And in the morning, pack my things,
And see what fun the new day brings.

There’s something really quite fantastic,
About a trip that’s not too drastic.
It’s more about the peace of mind,
Than QOMs on gravel grinds.

And while I’ve only been away,
Since after dinner yesterday,
I feel much more energized,
By all the things I’ve realized.

That dirt and sun, and clouds and trees,
And cycling out among the breeze,
And grounding down in nature’s nest,
Gives me space to be my best.

And once I’m home to rest my legs,
And make myself some ham and eggs,
It’s easy to appreciate,
Those little things that make life great.

So if you’re ever feeling down,
Or need to get out of your town,
To clear your mind and set things straight,
Or simply to rejuvenate.

Or maybe just to get your fix,
Of biking off into the sticks,
And setting up a tent somewhere,
And basking in the cool fresh air.

Whatever reason that you need,
Allow yourself to then take heed,
I guarantee you’ll feel lighter,
After one good overnighter.