Day 14 - The Epilogue
自分を信じて、仲間を信じて。" (Jibun o shinjite, nakama o shinjite.) "Believe in yourself, believe in your friends. This quote highlights the importance of self-confidence and trust in others. It encourages a sense of community and mutual support.
And just like that, the team that worked so hard together for the past 13 days, navigating around over 1000 km from Nagasaki to Fukuoka, found itself at a Fork in the Road. Tadao, the pocket rocket, left early to return to work in Naha City, Okinawa, Japan, a tiny island where he trains constantly for triathlons. Trent, our Aussie spinner, departed to join some old classmates in Queenstown before heading back to Singapore. Eden, our Van Man, was going to meet up with his wife in Sidney before returning to Queensland. Erick, Gadget Guy, jumped on the bullet train heading to Tokyo after a long evening of drinking with his old friend Yoshi. Simon H., The GOAT (Yellow Jersey winner), had another day in Fukuoka before returning to Sydney to rejoin his cycling club on Sunday morning. Joel, Team Captain and leader, is off to Okinawa for some scuba diving Meg, Queen of the Mountain and Simon B. are headed to Vietnam for a little R&R. Linda is headed to the States to see some college friends (the Fab Five) as well as a visit back to the family farm, and I’m heading back to New Zealand.
One of the most famous sayings in Japan is "七転び八起き" (nana korobi ya oki), which translates to "Fall seven times, stand up eight.". This proverb emphasises the importance of resilience and never giving up, even in the face of repeated setbacks. It's a powerful message about perseverance and determination, deeply ingrained in Japanese culture.
This trip, we were tested several times with the bad weather, a volcano eruption, flat tires, poor GPS coordinates, sore muscles, and yet we moved forward towards our goal, our end result.
Joel reminded us on several occasions "一期一会" (Ichi-go ichi-e)
"One encounter, one chance." This proverb reminds us to cherish each moment and each encounter in life, as they are unique and fleeting. It encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the present. Sometimes, this was about a crème-filled doughnut, chocolate croissant or Saki, but it made so much sense.
There are so many beautiful Japanese quotes and lessons, as the people and culture of Japan are so rich in history. This cycling trip, with old and new friends, reminds us to go outside of our comfort zone, learn, explore, take a chance and believe. The concept of ikigai, finding joy and purpose in the everyday are incredibly inspiring. We are hoping to bring a little of that spirit back home with us.
We’re hoping to bring the Band together again, and Rumour has it, it will be in 2 years, till then
Ride on!
