Learning from cycling

With the experience and wisdom gathered from his previous cycling trips, Wen compiled a comprehensive list of long-distance cycling equipment, covering a range of items such as bike lights, a medical kit, spare tires, rain gear, and energy bars. This preparation not only eased his family's concerns but also reinforced Wen's determination to hit the road.

On Aug 2, Wen started his 20-day cycling journey. At the start of each day, he would meticulously study the road conditions, adjust his planned route accordingly, and decide on his overnight stops.

On the very first day of departure, Wen encountered rainy weather. The skies were dim, the road was damp, and passing trucks splashed mud all over him. However, as the splendid world gradually unfolded before him, Wen couldn't help but feel fortunate to have embarked on this special journey.

"From the southwest to central China, there are distinct differences in terrain and landscape. Yunnan has both mountains and plains, but as I entered Guizhou province, the altitude started to drop," Wen recalled. "After I reached Hunan and Hubei provinces, the air became more humid, the terrain flattened, and the roads straightened, with fewer bends."

Different mountains, rivers, and landscapes of the country, which he had previously encountered only in books, stretched out before him, revealing their varied forms and lasting presence.

Wen traveled alone for most of the journey. Although he sometimes felt a sense of solitude, he also encountered many interesting people and had wonderful experiences along the route. By the banks of the Beipan River, for example, he met a fellow wandering cyclist, and they hit it off instantly.

"Despite the scorching weather and our parched throats, a 10-kilometer uphill climb couldn't deter us from enjoying a lively conversation. It was truly joyful," he said.

And in Changsha, he unexpectedly ran into a middle-school friend whom he hadn't seen for years. There was a special delight and deep emotion in meeting an old friend in a distant place. They strolled down the Huangxing Road Pedestrian Street, and visited the Orange Isle. "When it was time to part ways, neither of us wanted to say goodbye," Wen recalled.

There are always kind-hearted strangers. Once, Wen accidentally punctured a tire while trying to inflate it. When he took it to a repair shop, the owner not only fixed it for free but also gave him a bottle of water.

For Wen, this unique enrollment journey has opened a new chapter in his life. "In the upcoming four years of university life, I aim to not only acquire knowledge and expand my understanding of the outside world, but more importantly, understand myself. In fact, that's also the essence of traveling," he said.

Wen's cycling adventures won't come to a halt, and he is always thinking of his next destination. "China is so vast, and every corner is worth exploring," he said. "I hope that young people who choose to experience life through their footsteps can make the most of their youth, follow their hearts, and use love and action to observe and experience our country and the world."

Contact the writers at wangyuting@i21st.cn