In praise of places like this

[toekneep]

I love the generosity of this place and others like it. They are full of people who are prepared to give their time and knowledge to the benefit of others. Here are a few of my thoughts on giving to others and how it enriches us: http://wp.me/p46Haq-97

 

[young Ed]

yes, i agree!
i am riding spd-sl clipless due to the kindness of a stranger on here who is also another big foot (size 13 )
and i have met 4 chaps off here all very kind and friendly, one of which trusted me more than most people would! :thumsup:
and you all have saved me lots of swearing time and money down the workshop
Cheers Ed

 

[bengdis]

I rode Lon Las Cymru a few years back (North to South)……

On the approach to Machynlleth my rear pannier rack snapped near the axle fixing point. (I was riding completely self sufficient). I nursed the bike into town about 6 pm and came across an independent "kwik-fit" type place. The chap in there (the owner) couldn't have been more helpful and offered to repair it - or at least have his best attempt - which meant we could carry on the ride the next day until we found a bike shop for a new rack.

He bodged a fix together by bending a washer around the tube of the rack which offered it good support. I asked him how much he would like for his time and he said he wouldn't like a penny!!! I offered him money for a beer - he wouldn't accept. It was now getting on for 6:30 and we thanked him - said we were off to set the tent up and cook tea. It was then his next moment of kindness came - he called his sister and asked her to keep her cafe open until we got there. I remember I had the most amazing Lamb tagine!! It was such a nice experience to feel the kindness of others in this way - although they thought they were just doing the right thing.
It restored some of my faith in humanity…. such a lovely town, can't wait to go back.

There are some good people out there …. even in todays world - and my word do they make a difference.

 

[toekneep]

Great story Bengdis. Especially so because I lived close to Machynleth for 25 years! How's that for a coincidence?

 

[bengdis]

toekneep…. That is a bit bizarre!!

I've got to say - the story above is one of my favourite touring moments. A great ride into town (despite the rack snapping of course!!), and then the hospitality - all topped off with the beauty of the place….

Just a shame that it has been in the news recently for the wrong/sad reasons…..

 

[toekneep]

Yes its a lovely place. I lived in Corris then Cemmaes, both seven miles from Mach. I miss the people and the hills. I just love stories like yours, they are a reason on their own to go touring.

 

[bengdis]

Yep - One of the reasons why I just bought a Dawes Galaxy Plus too, after my other bike was stolen. I am yet to put some serious miles on it….

I love touring and the sense of freedom - Just had a quick look on your site. Will you be posting a potential schedule, so if we want to join you, we know where you'll be roughly??

 

[pplpilot]

Remember there are more decent people than not, it is just we tend to hear all the bad stuff that overshadows the good..

 

[bengdis]

Remember there are more decent people than not, it is just we tend to hear all the bad stuff that overshadows the good..

Agree with this completely!

 

[toekneep]

bengdis, I intend to map our location each day so if anybody wants to meet up please get in touch via the website/blog when we are in your area. It would be great to meet and ride with others.

 

[bengdis]

Superb! I wish you all the best - It will be an interesting ride for you.
I'll keep an eye on where you are…

 

[bengdis]

I'd also like to come ride with you for some time - but can't say where I'll be myself yet!!!

 

[hoopdriver]

I spent nine months on a solo trek through the Australian outback and could not begin to list all the acts of kindness and hospitality I experienced on that ride, some of them truly extraordinary. I came away from that journey with the understanding that the overwhelming number of people out there are good.