Today is Holocaust Memorial Day, commemorating one of the low points in human history.

Today Joey is silent.

In years past, I have addressed the issues raised by this day. Put “Holocaust” in the search bar if you want to revisit those essays.

Nancy has allowed me to share another perspective: hers. She was invited to give an address, entitled Yom HaShoah—April 17, 2023. She wrote it to be read aloud, like an Abraham Lincoln speech. Click on the link. It’s an excellent silent read too.

Let’s remember. And talk. And act.

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A look at today’s adventure requires perspective on yesterday’s ride up to Rabbit Ears Pass.

To leave the Rockies via Cameron Pass, we had to re-climb that thousand feet, and add another thousand too.

Walden ends where wild country begins.

Until we reached Ft. Collins late this afternoon, the roads were virtually empty.

In Ft. Collins, I lost my way. Peter set me straight.

Peter is a tech professional, and the father of a 9-year-old who out-thinks him, as kids tend to do. He is a strong advocate of human rights and has serious concerns about artificial intelligence. We had a delightful chat about the state of the world. Peter took this selfie as an alibi for being late for dinner.

I had a good asylum talk with a motel owner, and a quick and friendly encounter with manager Lee …

… at the restaurant where I replenished a few of the calories I burned today. Lee said he’s never met a stranger—nor have I on the Rides—and wished me tailwinds tomorrow.

Today’s winds were mostly helpful as I pedaled and coasted 101 miles.

A high point: Just outside Ft. Collins, the Rides reached 14,000 miles (22,530 km).

It’s a relief to spend tonight at “only” 5,000’. The altitude will drop, and the air will enrich, as we proceed onto the Great Plains.