Inspiration

Every project starts somewhere.

For the FREEDOM TOUR, it was a sign at our church. Becky and I invited people on a 500-mile bike ride across Colorado. Woody was the first guy who signed up.

It was a perfect fit. He grew up in the country where our Home of Hope is located. His heart for these kids has been a huge part of the FREEDOM TOUR culture. Plus, he loves to ride bikes. I can’t imagine how many thousands of miles Woody has ridden his bike in his lifetime.

Woody’s teammates would tell you about the “suitcase” he carries on his bike. While most cyclists try to shave off every ounce of weight, Woody carries a giant bag with all sorts of tools and spare parts. It’s the source good-natured kidding, until someone breaks down and Woody reaches into his bag of tricks for a tube or tire or the perfect tool.

One day our friend Jeff decided to play a prank. He snuck a big, heavy rock into Woody’s suitcase. We all got quite a chuckle out of watching him lug that extra weight for a few miles.

Woody’s commitment to our kids is legendary. In 2014 he traveled halfway around the world and talked his way through lots of security to visit them in person. He always carries pictures of that visit, and never misses a chance to talk about the kids and offer a donation opportunity.

Since 2013, Woody has personally raised more than $52,000 for the kids at the Home of Hope.

As I type this, I’m simultaneously chuckling and praying. Woody just had surgery, and we pray for peace and recovery. However, I’m pretty sure he asked the OR team to delay a few moments so he could hand them a donation form and show them pictures of the kids he loves so much.

Get better, my friend. And, as you always remind us…

Keep the rubber side down.

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