Where Are the Kids' Bikes?
by Michael Doyle

Driving down the suburban streets
It seems the few kids out are on their feet.
What happened to the bikes in my neighborhood?
The fun of this, I thought, would be understood.

But even as I tried over and over again
To teach my daughters this would bring friends
Even they thought of this as somehow passe.
I become something I would never bother to say.

The school-aged children in protective helmets
Riding in lines together is seldom met.
It is as though computers have made them forget
And that seems something they will one day regret.

I know that I do already, and think of the health.
Computers might be too engaging and maybe bring wealth
But what good is a ton of money when you're sedentary?
I don't mean to sound like a Luddite or too contrary.

Only one in five are now biking frequently.
This to me seems almost a tragic absurdity.
It's one of the healthiest things for a kid to do,
And is good for their emotional and physical health, too.

I think its correlative value is more than coincidence.
There is no doubt that it builds up a child's confidence.
All of this, plus a fall or two, builds resilience
And all of this together creates a kid with shining brilliance.

(c) July 1, 2025   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved