Becky and I spent a big chunk of the weekend talking to people about Front Range Freedom Tour 2013.
Lots of people stopped to chat. Most had a similar reaction:
I’d like to do something like that, but it looks too hard. It would take so much time. I couldn’t afford it.
You get the idea. Almost everyone we talked to thought the ride was a great idea for a wonderful cause. They clearly wished us well. And they had a well-rehearsed litany of reasons/excuses for not joining the team as a rider or volunteer.
There was a time when that sort of weekend would have sent me into a tailspin of cynicism. But when I headed out Sunday afternoon for a training ride I was actually energized.
I remembered the guy about my age. He stood a few feet away and gazed intently at the map of our proposed route. You could see from his face that he was visualizing something that mattered. He wasn’t excited or giddy…he was determined.
When I greeted him he said, “I want to do this. I need to do this.”
“Well, then let’s do it.”
“I’ll be in touch.” He took the materials and headed off.
I thought about the young lady who almost sprinted to our table. “Do you really think I could do something this amazing? It seems like it would be so incredible!” Her face beamed when I assured her she’d find untapped strength in shared sacrifice. She hugged me. “I SO want to do this with you.”
There were five high school kids who inquired about riding because they’re passionate about fighting human trafficking. How can you not get excited about that?
I don’t know whether any of these folks will end up joining the team. I hope so, but I’m slowly learning to do my best and leave the results to God. Somehow He always seems to work it out.
Here’s what I hope: I hope they don’t choose based on fear. If they truly believe in the cause, if they’re attracted to the notion of joining a team of committed people who are dedicated to something bigger than themselves, I hope they won’t let fear stop them.
- Afraid I can’t ride that many miles
- Afraid to ask for time off work
- Afraid I can’t raise the money
- Afraid of…
I believe most regret traces back to a decision based on fear. God’s bigger than our fears. Most people never approach their true potential because they don’t trust God for the space beyond their comfort.
Jesus said, ““Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” (Matthew 14:27) He assured us we could face fear because He would be with us.
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The sketch at the top is a mock-up of the ride jersey. I’m still playing with ideas before I send it to a real designer who actually knows what they’re doing—what do you think?
Visualize the team rolling along the Colorado foothills proclaiming the message: STOP HUMAN TRAFFICKING.
I’m energized by the idea of being part of that. You?
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