The (half) naked ride
So, for reasons beyond our comprehension, Kate and I rode our (clothed) asses down to Union Park on Saturday night only to undress and take part in the Chicago leg of the World Naked Ride. I say this because we weren’t sure exactly why we felt the need to parade around on our bikes in our birthday suits, but really, do you need any other reason? I mean yes, we also support the actual messages behind the ride. I am down with self-love. Plus, I am all about protesting our dependency on oil. And here I must add, the fact that we almost DROVE TO THE RIDE does not negate my feelings whatsoever. We all have our contradictions, no? I think the whole secret location, sneaky, haha we’re breaking the law aspect was really what made me want to go. If I can thank the naked ride for anything it’s that it has led me to some really valuable insights into my persona. Like, I am not really a full-on exhibitionist at heart, I just have criminal tendencies. Or something like that.
So, the ride itself was great. More than great. It was everything the organizers promised and more. It was indeed a fun, non-sexual naked bike ride. I was actually a little worried about whether or not creepy pick-up overtones would make the ride uncomfortable, but it really wasn’t like that. There were no sleezy lingering stares or comments. Everyone just seemed really overjoyed to be rid of their cotton blend skins and frolicking together naked. Also, I really appreciated that the “bare as you dare” stance was respected, and no one was discriminated against for wearing too much or too little. Even on the way to the ride there was a sense of excitement and community, with people yelling, “Naked ride?!” as they passed us.
So, the one million dollar question seems to be, “Did you get naked?!” And to this I respond, I got as naked as I felt was appropriate for little old me. Which was approximately half naked. And it was very liberating. To the point where I considered baring more, but the granny in me nagged that I would catch a chill.
The long and short of it is, I am so happy we participated in the naked ride, and if all goes well, I plan to do it next year and recruit more people to go with me. You may see more bare booties and other bits and pieces than you care to, but you won’t be sorry, I promise.
Soy milk makes you gay!
I’ll take a vat!
Man, this guy really has some hate for the soy milk.
