Yesterday, I learned that Clare Walsh died on December 25. I didn't know Clare personally. I had only said "hello", "great class" and "thank you" a few times. Still, it was shocking.
I clicked into a bike at Soul Cycle for the first time on a Sunday morning in late July, and there she was - Clare, the master instructor, on her bike leading us on that journey. She turned down the lights and turned up the music. She had what I consider to be that magic "it."
She told us to close our eyes and ride toward our future. To ride harder, to ride stronger.
The sweat poured, and she stopped to dance like only Clare could. We rode harder. Eyes closed.
I was hooked after that first class, and I signed up for Clare's class as often as I could. The last time was as powerful as the first. The music she played was always great, and one of my favorites was "Made in America" by Kanye West and Jay Z. I'm listening to it now.
Sweet Queen Clare, you helped us make it. It's our turn.
Close your eyes.