My friend Paul and I talked a while back about the benefits of a bike adventure combined with advocating for a social justice cause.
We shared stories of riders who exceeded everyone’s expectations because they were riding for something bigger than themselves. I said I wish everyone could have that sort of experience and sometimes I struggle to understand why it’s so difficult for people to make the commitment.
Paul and I reached this conclusion.
Once you’ve stepped through the door, it’s easy to forget how hard it was to step through the door the first time.
Paul’s done lots of tours. I’ve done a few. We’re both “over” the fear of can I do it? When others say “That’s amazing” we tend to wave our hands dismissively. No big deal.
Except, of course, it is a big deal. Whether it’s cycling a lot of miles, raising the funds, talking about the cause, or just being part of a team, it’s scary, especially when you’ve never done it. That’s okay. It’s supposed to be scary.
We pay a heavy price to avoid feeling afraid. Mostly, it’s not worth it. The point isn’t avoiding fear, it’s finding the courage to confront the fear.
It gets easier each time you do it. Honestly, it never gets easy. It shouldn’t, not if you’re challenging your limits and trusting God in the space beyond your comfort zone.
Maybe that’s one of the big advantages to an adventure like a bike tour. It’s a fun way to step through the door for the first time.
Hopefully that initial step leads to others and a lifetime of trusting God’s call to engage with your faith and follow big, outrageous dreams.
And hopefully that’s about a lot more than riding bikes.
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