I’m currently on a bikepacking trip (OTET – 330 miles) biking from Cincinnati to Cleveland – yep, it’s wild and also Amazing.
My friends and I visited this small city in Ohio called Mt. Vernon – if you’re ever driving (or biking 😊) through Ohio, you should stop there. After a long 40 miles, we were happy to find a sandwich shop, but I honestly got something better than food.
There was a man at the cash register who was a bright light. I ordered a sub with gluten-free bread and I thought I said no cheese. When I received my food, it came loaded with cheese. I went to him and said, “I thought I said ‘No cheese, I’m sorry.. I’m so sorry”.
He looked straight into my eyes and said, “Don’t you ever apologize. Don’t apologize for taking care of yourself. You’re trying to look out for your health. Never apologize for yourself and who you are.” I was like shit, man you’re right.
I’ve apologized for so much in my life and it’s always been for who I am, or my trying to care for myself. Why? Because I put others before me, but I can’t complete any work by doing that now can I?
He then went on to tell my friends and me, “I’m not here for me. I’m on this earth for others too. We all are.” Man. I see your light and you just encouraged mine to shine brighter.
Everyone needs a dose of this light at Daves Cosmic Subs in Mt Vernon, Ohio. The food is good, but just go in for the energy – haha.
I have a saying: If there’s something you need to say, say it. You think no one is listening, but all it takes is that one person. Your words may inspire the next MLK, Ghandi, or Maya Angelou.
Erica Chinise Art 