Back In The Saddle (The Friday Ficks S5E40)

Luke Combs has done it again with his new hit, Back In The Saddle.

This one hits home for me. After a right hip replacement sidelined my road cycling for a good part of this summer, I’ve claimed it as my 2025 anthem.

The lyrics say it all: “I’ve been gone for a little too long. I’ve been waitin’ on a drummer to kick off a comeback song. I’ve been waitin’ in the wings like a dog on a chain…”

That’s exactly how it felt - waiting in the wings, restless, sidelined, hopeful but held back. Now I’ve been cleared to ride again, and yes, I’m officially back in the saddle.

But here’s the truth: no comeback is a solo act.

To my family and friends who poured out encouragement and good vibes - thank you.

To my surgeon and his skilled team - thank you.

To the PT crew who challenged and cheered me on - thank you.

Every return requires a cast of characters. Nobody climbs back in the saddle without a little help. And that’s what makes it so powerful - not just the comeback, but the community that makes it possible.

So here’s a challenge for you: who around you might be “waiting in the wings,” just needing a word, a hand, or a nudge to get back in their own saddle?

Be that encouragement today.

Own the day. Own the weekend.

Carl