There is magic, but you have to be the magician. You have to make the magic happen.
Sidney Sheldon
Nothing was more evident to us as we watched heavy, bulky loads of just about anything get transported on bicycles and motorcycles throughout Vietnam. How in the world could mere mortals stack, pack, and tie down so much STUFF and then skillfully ride it along to its destination?
“Magic,” we said, as it seemed to be the only explanation.
One man’s magic is another man’s engineering.
Robert Heinlein
And coupled with the magic, a little skillful engineering moved mountains: food, bedding, people, potted plants. You name it. Someone — well, someone living in Hanoi at least — could fit just about anything onto a bike and peddle away.
We marveled at the skills of heavily laden drivers, and noted that not even one seemed to be smiling. They were focused. And determined. And on their way to somewhere. Not willing to let anyone get in the way of making magic happen.
So when you think of magic, pulling a rabbit out of a hat or performing a little sleight of hand with a deck of cards might come to mind.
But the real stuff magic is made of is how you handle real life!
A little magic can take you a long way.
Roald Dahl
Stay safe out there.
Rusha & Bert
This post is one of a series of one-word prompts for April 2020 called Discover Prompts by WordPress. Enjoy!
pam@ichoosethis
These pictures are soo much fun – it is amazing what they carry on their wheels. That first image is amazing – that woman is a badass!
Oh, the Places We See
We were stunned when we saw what people can do. It makes me want to see if I could do the same. Well, sorta!
Perpetua
It is amazing the so called third world is more equip living life as a necessity is a mother of all inventions. The true magic is the people.
Oh, the Places We See
I couldn’t agree more. They certainly have adapted well over the years, and they’re innovative as well. Thanks for taking a look and commenting!!
Curt Mekemson
When I rode my bicycle around North America, Rusha, I was carrying about 50 pounds of food and gear. And I thought I was heavily loaded! 🙂 –Curt
Oh, the Places We See
Now that’s impressive, Curt. I would have a hard time riding around North America or Hanoi on a bicycle let alone paced to the gills. We were amazed at how skilled these folks were at carrying anything and everything on bikes!!!!