Five years ago, Monte encountered his first taste of fear. As you’ll see, he was confused. We could all learn something from Monte’s response to fear. # # # We’re in another new place called the South. I don’t know what that means—it’s just another place with unique smells to check out. But I have […]
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Inspired By Hope
Five years ago I was riding my bike 1500 miles. One of the most enjoyable aspects of the ride was long hours to think, ponder, and just be alone with God. You know you’re lost in your thoughts when you lose track of which state you’re riding in. # # # I wonder if I’m motivated or […]
Continue readingHow Will You Fill Your Tiles?
My friend Eric and I had breakfast in one of those old restaurants with the one-foot square checkered tile floors. We’re about the same age. He said, “Here’s a good way to visualize our legacy and the work we still want to do. “Count out seven of those tiles and let each one represent a […]
Continue readingDoes The Process Matter?
Results-focused thinking is dangerous. Five years ago we were riding along the Mississippi River near Cape Girardeau, Missouri. A post called Traveling Well contrasted two rides and prompted some thoughts about current events. “It’s about the journey, not the result.” Thursday’s ride was about as routine as it gets. Straight roads, wide shoulders, a fair amount […]
Continue readingWhen Push Comes To Shove
I hope I never diminish my dreams by settling for practicality. I wrote that four years ago in a post titled Abraham and Martin. I’ll adapt my words from that post. # # # Becky and I visited the Lincoln and MLK Memorials following our 500-mile bike tour to benefit International Justice Mission. I admire both men, and I […]
Continue readingMonte Talks About Jobs
About halfway through the Mississippi River journey, Monte reflected on the notion of a job. # # # Last week I told you we’re involved in something called a “project.” I don’t really understand; I don’t think dogs do projects. But I it sounds like something I’d like. Rich and I don’t go to school […]
Continue readingDay By Day
Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos won the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize. You and I, and most of the people we know, won’t win a Nobel Prize. But every choice we make impacts others, often in ways we never see. Jon started walking a few years ago. Then running. Last week he ran a marathon. Rustin […]
Continue readingA Different Look At Detours
Detours are part of life…and following dreams. Five years ago I encountered that reality on my 1500-mile journey that was supposed to follow the Mississippi River but often didn’t. # # # Thursday and Friday of last week I scarcely saw the river. I trust that it’s there, that I’ll meet it again at some […]
Continue readingA Room Filled With Hope
Better than that…imagine an NFL stadium filled with hope. Last Friday, everyone in US Bank Stadium was dedicated to hope. While our event didn’t quite pack the place with people, A NIGHT FOR HOPE filled the venue with stories of encouragement and hope. Doug Kaufman and HOPE360 brought storytellers from around the country to network, share our stories, and […]
Continue readingHow I Remember The Hills
Becky and I are in Minneapolis today for an event called A NIGHT FOR HOPE. We’re excited to be part of an event dedicated to promoting stories of encouragement through HOPE360. I’m looking forward to connecting with inspirational people from around the country. Plus, we get a VIP tour of US Bank Stadium, the Minnesota Vikings brand […]
Continue readingThe Courage To Take The Next Step
“I’m not sure where this thing is going.” My friend and I talked over lunch as he shared uncertainty about the direction of his ministry. “There are so many moving parts, so much that’s beyond my influence, that I can’t really see how it’s all going to play out.” Ever been there? (I see those […]
Continue readingWhy You Should Remember
I find the trail by riding it, then I look back and discover a path. There’s a lot of recent conversation about “Never Forget.” More important, I think, to remember. Remember acts as a sort of curator, sorting, cataloging, and displaying the past. Remember seeks patterns and distills lessons. Remember allows us the perspective of time to separate wheat […]
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