On this trip I’ve confronted the difference between dreams and politics. Politics is about identifying and achieving what’s possible. Dreams are about hope, and hope changes what’s possible. I hope I never diminish my dreams by settling for practicality. Becky and I are taking a few days to see the sights in DC. On Tuesday […]
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A Face In The Crowd
On Monday our IJM Freedom Tour met for the final time. There were hugs and good-byes and pictures and tears. It was a bit like the last day of summer camp with an enhanced sense of impending separation and loss. When people share this sort of struggle and sacrifice, strong bonds develop. Our last gathering […]
Continue readingI Can’t Un-Know
On Sunday a small group from our IJM Freedom Tour team visited the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. The experience of this tour has changed me in one significant way: I now know about the horrors of violent oppression. I’ve heard individual stories from victims of human trafficking, slavery, and forced sexual bondage. I’ve heard the […]
Continue readingThe Good Samaritan’s Return On Investment
This week I’ve been writing over at Bouncing Back about efficiency in the context of firefighting. Last time I talked about efficient stewardship and left you with a question: Is “responsible” stewardship always efficient? I wonder about this as I consider the resources required to support RICH’S RIDE. I ask sponsors to underwrite our costs, I […]
Continue readingDefining A Dream
I’m willing to accept wisdom wherever I can find it, even if the source is an egg-shaped philosopher named Humpty Dumpty. Whenever I struggle to understand a word I’m reminded of this conversation from Lewis Carroll’s Through The Looking Glass: “When I use a word,” Humpty Dumpty said, in rather a scornful tone, “it means […]
Continue readingAn Evening With Becky And Rich
Becky and I were blessed to share some stories from Rich’s Ride at Timberline Church. I hope you enjoy this video of a great evening that included a humbling surprise near the end. Can’t see the video? Click here.
Continue readingAll I Want For Christmas…
…I already received. It’s THE question of the season: WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR CHRISTMAS? None of us completely outgrows the childlike wonder of Christmas. We all secretly enjoy the surprise of a Christmas gift. However, this year I can truthfully say that I’ve received a gift beyond my wildest imagination. Rich’s Ride was not […]
Continue readingPowerful
Here’s a video based around two powerful quotes. I’m inspired–hope you are as well. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=_7I7iasuIdw If you can’t see the video, click here. Have an inspired weekend!
Continue readingIt’s Only A Bike Ride
We received another dose of humility this weekend. Pastor Dick Foth at Timberline Church in Fort Collins invited Becky, Monte, and me to share a bit about Rich’s Ride in weekend worship services. Dick asked each of us to offer a one-word takeaway from our experience. Becky talked about the supportive power of prayer; I […]
Continue readingResponding To A Gift
It’s been a month since we reached New Orleans. Thanksgiving’s past, and many of us are focused on Christmas. And Christmas, of course, is all about gifts—or at least that’s what the culture wants us to believe. As I distill the experience of Rich’s Ride, one central notion keeps popping into my head. I sense […]
Continue readingWho Decides?
Imagine traveling a deserted, desolate stretch of crumbling highway past abandoned commercial facilities and dilapidated shacks. Snarling dogs chase you; wind and sun turn your skin raw; people stare at you as you pass. Imagine rolling along a quiet country back road on a bright, sunny morning. The cotton harvest provides unfamiliar, interesting activity. Prosperous-looking […]
Continue readingAin’t No Normal
Before the ride began I did my annual physical, including lab tests on various fluids and functions. When we discussed the results the doctor handed me several papers. Each item listed my results and a range that’s considered “normal.” I’m fortunate—aside from the whole paralysis thing I’m quite healthy. In all important categories on the […]
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