Whether we admit it or not, I think all of us in this forum have been in your position at one time or another. I'm 65 and part of my motivation comes from guys on this forum that are older and ride further and faster then me. I haven't been riding as long as many of you have (only 2 years), but I feel that I have moved mountains in getting where I am today because of the motivation I get from others. If tomorrow, I can only move a hill rather than a mountain, that's alright since it's much better then doing nothing at all.

There are times when I go out for my daily 30 mile ride where the wind might be a little stronger than the day before and I say "the heck with it", and end up doing 20 or 25 miles instead. Or, I tell myself that it isn't worth it trying to maintain a constant 15-16 mph speed every time I have a headwind, just to prove a point, and end up riding 12-13 mph or slower. I even have days when I want to ride the distance but don't want to do the speed and end up riding the 30 miles at 10-12 mph. But there is always tomorrow when I can get out there and do my normal routine.

There are some things that I can still do that I did when I was younger and some things that I can do better and some things I can't do at all. When I was 40, I got my black belt in Tae-Kwon-Do. Today, I couldn't fight my way out of a paper bag. Back then I was able to do full splits. Today, I'm lucky to spread my legs past my shoulders. Time has a way of changing us, so I only worry about what I can do today and try to do it a little better tomorrow, if tomorrow ever comes.

Don't give up on yourself. I always enjoy reading your posts and your stories. Hang in there and stay in the saddle! There are better days to come, especially when you retire. If you have to wait until then to pick up the pace, so be it. Just enjoy the rides between now and then.