Another incredible day. I felt great for the second day in a row! We started out into a headwind and climbed 18 miles before a short flat 3 mile stretch and then 11 more miles of climb through Windy Cave National Park and the National Forest. We saw great herds of buffalo including some crossing the road right in front of us! Another 15 miles of climbing through the Black Mountains brought us to Mt. Rushmore to visit the four presidents. I bought a presidential soda with President Bush on the front for Karen. (Guzzled the soda but saved you the bottle!)
The ride into Rapid City was changed from the original plan. Larry Frederick, a fellow rider, is riding to promote blood donation because he was given 150 units of blood which saved his life. (Read his story at www.lifeacrossamerica.com) He was on duty as a policeman when struck by a car. He can barely walk but rides his bike with great courage and stamina. We ended up being paraded around the city to promote a blood donation drive and were riding into a headwind again plus 15 extra miles of riding! But it was an honor to do the extra miles with Larry.
Headwinds are the most mentally difficult obstacle to overcome. A 25 mph headwind can double your time on the bike and with hot weather creates energy problems. I strip down my bike and carry only the essentials in my back jersey pockets because weight slows you down. You must keep your eyes on the finish line, put your head down, and keep going as long as needed to get to your goal.
My encouragement is Hebrews 12:1, 2. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting Him, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now He is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.”
Let us ride with endurance the race that is set before us! The wind and heat are constant but the attitude you have can change things for good or bad. Keeping an eye on Jesus helps me keep a good attitude!
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Wind, uuugggghhh. It's enough that the hills are in front of you but the mix of wind in the equation eliminates a lot of joy. The positivie thing about the hills is that once on top, the creation stretched before you is majestic while wind pays no such dividend.
I love the Hebrews verse of shedding all that encumbers. Next of course, is the stimulating to good works. I think you realized that verse when you rode with Larry, even the extra 15 miles. We continue to pray for you daily.
Michael & Jan
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