Whirling Wheels, Alex Rodriguez DMD

Eastside Trail Near Glenwood Avenue

Whirling Wheels reminds us, “Share the road.” That is important in many ways. It is important because sharing, generosity, and kindness are always important. It is important because we all travel the same road together — at different paces, starting from different points and heading to different destinations — and the road is only so wide. It is important because sharing the road reminds of us of the connected, collective, interdependent world in which we live. Sharing the road is about all that.

In the case of Whirling Wheels, I think the meaning is more literal. The Beltline is literally a crowded space where people need to share the road. Bikers need to diligently monitor their speed. Parents need to carefully guide their children. Runners need to mindfully watch their path. Walkers need to patiently move between people. Skateboarders, one-wheelers, scooter riders, et. al. need to, “Share the road,” too. It all must happen as a celebration of community. The Beltline is a unique and important public space in which people are asked to share.

A Note on my Atlanta Beltline Writing Project

I am practicing paying attention. I am practicing noticing beauty. I am practicing getting in touch with my artist self. I am practicing connecting with the outdoors. I am practicing my inner Mary Oliver. I live in Atlanta, “the city in a forest.” I live on the Atlanta Beltline, an interurban trail that graces the city. The Beltline is part arboretum, part art gallery, part park. It connects shops and restaurants and homes with people of all descriptions. I walk on the Beltline 4 or 5 times a week. I have spent the last year appreciating all that it is. I have personally photographed the images I will share. My hope is to write about it — its art, trees, landmarks, etc.— for the next few weeks as spring unfolds.