In retirement, I bicycle almost every day, 22 miles over the hills of Conway and Ashfield. I do so alone, partly because I am slow (real bicyclists pass me by so quickly that I appear to be going backward) and partly because I enjoy the solitude.

Sometimes I revel in the beauty of my surroundings. Sometimes my thoughts are of tasks to do back home. Sometimes I think big thoughts, solve problems, make plans. And, occasionally, I compose letters to the editor.

Oftentimes, I fantasize. These are Walter Mitty-style fantasies, like: I win the lottery and set up a giving foundation. Oprah reads the children’s books I have authored and invites me on her show. Because of the impression I make on Oprah’s show, I am elected president and solve the world’s problems. And on and on.

Twenty-two miles is a long way, and as mentioned, I am slow. This affords lots of time to flesh out these fantasies with precise detail. I know. Silly and embarrassing!

Here is the latest bicycle reverie. Because of turns of events (conceived during the first seven miles of the ride), Michele Obama is running for president in 2024 against Donald Trump. In his boorish (or should I say boarish) behavior in debates, interviews and rallies, Trump reaffirms his lack of character. He reasserts his devotion to self. He demonstrates his willingness to do anything for power and attention; he promises to wreak vengeance on anyone or any institution that does not show fealty to his control.

Worst of all, he continues to foment the worst in our natures, stoking fear and hatred at every turn.

In contrast, Michele Obama acts from a value base she learned from her South Side Chicago upbringing — a true respect for all human beings, a deep empathy for those who through no fault of their own face life’s difficulties, an appreciation for hard work and civic responsibility. In her brilliant and heartfelt oratory, she sets an example for the nation to emulate.

Of course, in my daydream, there are many, many detailed and specific examples of the above. By mile 17, I am ready for the election. Again, much detail and drama, but the bottom line by mile 20 is this: The vast majority of the American people from all over the country have come to recognize that the most important quality for a president is that they, through word and deed, set an example for our children of kindness, compassion and care.

People by the tens of millions who hold different policy views from Ms. Obama recognize that character and human values are more important. They vote for personal virtues over political talking points. By mile 21, President-elect Obama gives a speech thanking the American electorate for giving her the largest electoral mandate in our nation’s history.

A fantasy? Only time will tell.

Peter Rosnick is a retired faculty member/dean from Greenfield Community College who now bicycles and writes children’s books. He lives with his wife in Conway.