Originally Posted by NOS88

I haven't talked with RL in several years. We used to live in the same town and ride almost every other day during summer months. The places we went, the roads we explored, the stories we told, are all firmly planted in my memory. It was a good time to remember. But as with many things it didn't last. About 12 years ago we moved far enough away from one another that riding together was not likely to happen. Maybe once a year we'd call each other and talk, but we both new talking on the phone wasn't all the comfortable for either of us. So, eventually the time between calls went from two to three months to once a year. Last night I tracked down his phone number to give him a call. We talked and as I hung up the phone I had a deep sadness. RL hasn't ridden in 7 or 8 years. He's put on 60 lbs. and doesn't exercise at all. By his own words he's given up on sports. It's not because of injuries either. He just doesn't want to put in the effort. I'm having a hard time making any sense out of this. I have an older brother who has done the same thing. Why is it that some folks reach a point where they seem to be coasting along just waiting for the end to come? I almost wish I hadn't called him, because now instead of the images of a healthy guy enjoying 200 mile weeks, I've got an image of him just giving up and waiting for the end. It's an image I don't want.

So this is the 50+ forum and the place to ask, why do we push on when others don't? Or maybe it should be, why do some just give up and throw in the towel? What's the difference between us? Is it a difference in what life has doled out thus far?