It Really Is A Small World

We had a great ride today, but had to stop about two miles from the hotel. The town of Spring Hill literally has NO bike lanes or sidewalks on major streets, and we (well, Becky) decided two more miles wasn’t worth the risk.

So we stopped to get off the bike and a lady came out and asked if we needed any help. We chatted, and eventually discovered she grew up in Colorado. After a few more questions we found out she went to junior high school at the same school in Fort Collins where I taught for 24 years! Her last year there was my first and she didn’t remember me (sigh) but what are the odds?

This unlikely encounter also provided a cautionary tale. She volunteered that her most vivid memory of her three years at that school was having a broken arm and having to learn to write left-handed. She remembered the teacher who made fun of her handwriting.

We should all take note. I know that teacher, and I know he didn’t mean any harm. But of all the things that occurred during three years, that’s the first that came to mind.

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can break a heart. And sometimes broken hearts take a long time to heal.

# # #

Finally had a chance to break out the GoPro camera again. Read this passage, then enjoy a trip along the Suncoast Trail north of Tampa.

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Can’t see the video? Click here.

# # #

With 713 miles behind us, we’re headed toward Ocala today. If things go according to plan, which is highly unlikely, we’ll take a rest day Friday and speak to the folks at the Re-Entry Center of the Department of Corrections. It’s a place dedicated to breaking the cycle of repeated offences. I’m excited.

Please leave a comment here.