The Importance of Terrain

One thing that cyclists, walkers and new drivers have in common is a renewed appreciation for topography. In our house we have one of each of these — a cyclist, a walker and a new driver — and we are all feeling the hills.

The long slow grades are the toughest for cyclists and walkers. But for the new driver it is the unexpected dip, the unanticipated downhill.

When you’ve been driving for years you forget that vehicles move even when your foot is not on the gas pedal. Cars can zip backwards down a driveway before you know it; they can pick up enough steam on a slow descent to push you quickly over the speed limit. Lesson one, I say to Celia, my voice wavering just a bit from the passenger seat: The brake pedal is your friend.

To myself I think: It’s good to remember the importance of the terrain. Topography keeps us humble.