Cycling through North Devon's 'glorious land' brings community spirit to life
A cycling trip through North Devon's picturesque countryside highlights the resilience and community spirit of the people who live there, and the importance of kindness and friendship in overcoming life's challenges.
I recently had a few days away in North Devon, near Torrington, and spent three days cycling on the Tarka Trail. I drove back south on the A368, a winding road with few other vehicles, undulating like a many-humped camel and presenting spectacular open views towards Dartmoor and the Devon countryside. What a glorious land we inhabit. I was struck by how remarkably verdant it all looked, with emerald acres of patchwork where a few weeks ago were tinder-dry fields of dust. Nature is so resilient.
People too are resilient. Many in our community display enormous bravery to overcome profound loss – a spouse, parents, offspring, beloved pets, loss of health, mobility, independence, trust, confidence…and yet, with time and kindness, they manage to dig deep and find the will to keep on living, even to enjoy life again.
Working in the community, I have the privilege of meeting people like this every day, of watching them as they begin to relax a bit, to feel seeds of hope again, and gradually find happiness and the joy of new friends. Friends can and do make the world of difference.
This is one of my favourite photos which, to me, captures a visual synopsis of community. It was taken when a group of us were catching a bus to a community lunch. Nancy was sitting on a single seat when Glyn got on a few stops later; she shifted so he could share the seat, and the two of them (and the rest of us) giggled like toddlers! Just two people who have overcome many obstacles in life, who met in the community and enjoy eating lunch with many other friends. What could be better?
Are you one of these brave survivors of life and loss? Would you like a light touch to introduce you to a few other survivors? We all need a little help sometimes, and Community Builders just love to be that bridge that can lead you towards a life that is a little brighter, a little fuller, even, perhaps, with a handful of giggles along the way.
If you’d like to get in touch, you can call me on 07716 074903 or email [email protected]