Am I a Cycling Sourpuss? -unmet wishes of others

[RoadRaven]

I HATE it when I get backed into corners for donations to things. I usually endeavour to point out that I choose the organisations I give to. If I have already given to the particular one that is in my face at that moment - I point this out also.

As for the not wanting to spend time with work-mates out of work hours - or even near the work-place... I totally relate.

Over the last few years I have been constantly pressured to go to conferences and symposiums in other parts of the country that last 2-6 days. I keep avoiding them and when I have to I choose the shortest ones, or sign up for the longer ones and only stay away 1-2 nights.

I chose my partner to spend my time with. I want to spend time with my children as they grow so quickly towards independance (the second one moves out today to his new job an hours drive/3 hours by bike away!).

I didn't choose to live with my colleagues.... and ultimately, in ten years time will I regret not being with my colleagues at some work-thing - or will I regret not going for my rides with my sons and partner, or not being able to read to my son in the evening and hearing instead how he missed giving me my morning hug? My guess is my colleagues will not factor at all...

Work is work, and while work-relationships are important, I think way tooooo much emphasis has been put on team-bonding, you see, I believe that as long as work-relationships are good, that can actually sometimes be enough!