Ready to Roll

Today marked a monumental shift: I finally got a bicycle. True, it was worn and needed repair, but it was mine. With a new front tire, pedals, rearview mirror, rear seat, and other essentials, I was almost ready for the road. The total cost stung---a whole 150 pesos---but it was a necessary investment.

My preparations didn't stop there. I purchased a Spanish-English dictionary, a small but significant tool for the upcoming encounters. And tomorrow, I have plans to buy a map of South America and some shorts on Florida Street.

While Buenos Aires has grown homey, I mustn't forget the sense of momentum and continuity: I reminded myself of the emotions I felt the day I lost my backpack---utter perplexity forlornness, followed by strange sense of clarity about the path ahead. I needed to leave before the line between comfort and complacency blurs, making my next step hesitant.