We encounter some of the nicest people in the coolest places.
We met these folks in Elroy at a quaint little converted railroad depot that’s now a bike trail stopover.
They listened to our story and talked about friends who have quit trying. This story resonates wherever we go.
People respond to the promise of hope.
We talked to Randy in a coffee house that used to be a one-room school.
Randy operates a martial arts school and works with folks who balance fear and challenge. He was curious about the notion of ENcourage, sharing courage with others by walking alongside someone who’s facing adversity.
Michael and Debra are long-time Facebook friends. Michael deals with his own challenges and has moved forward with an attitude of service.
Michael and I shared a couple of glorious days riding together.
It’s fun when virtual friends become face-to-face buddies.
This journey is all about encounters. The trick is not being trapped by our own expectations and remaining open to God’s direction and the appointments He arranges.
I don’t know how that works, exactly. But we’ll keep trying to do it anyway.
# # #
September 11 triggers a variety of memories.
In 2001, cowards crashed planes into buildings. In 2013, floods ravaged Northern Colorado communities.
For me, this date will always be remembered fondly. On September 11, 2011, I turned the crank on the first mile of our 1500-mile Mississippi River ride. I still feel that crisp Minnesota morning, the air of anticipation and uncertainty, the sense that I was about to do something crazy and remarkable.
Much has transpired in three years. We’ve been privileged to share the story of hope with thousands of people in all sorts of venues. Our supporters have contributed more than $120,000 to social justice efforts.
This has never been about a bike ride, but I’m a much stronger rider than I was three years ago. I think I’m a more confident speaker, mostly because it’s clear I’m not telling my own story.
We’ll ride our bikes on this September 11. I’m excited to see the roads God has for us to discover.
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