I have been trying to find the right words to summarize this experience and it is hard to capture it all. First, I can't believe the ride is over. Nine weeks of getting up daily and biking no matter if it is raining, hot, or cold. You get to a point where you run on automatic. Your body surprisingly recovering after back to back to back long days. Where you don't mind the challenges such as climbing mountain passes or riding in head winds (I prefer passes over winds) because you know that will make you stronger for what is coming up next. You know the sight at the top will wipe away any pain and memories of the climb. There were a lot of interesting things along the way.
I loved worshiping in churches of different denominations every week. It is so amazing to know how big the family of God is. Even though there are differences we all live for the same reason serving the same God!
I loved seeing the beauty of this country. It was amazing to see how much the country changed along the way. From starting out on the east coast where we passed through cities with populations in the millions, days spent riding in the rain, where everything was green and lush in the Appalachians to the midwest where populations dwindled. It seemed like there was more corn than people. Where I completely understood what the crossroads of Iowa were. I could stand in the middle of one of those and see forever in all directions. This part of the country providing food and other agriculture. Then arriving in the West where the skies were so big, clouds fascinating, and mountain views that left you in awe. A place where the mountains filled the skyline instead of skyscrapers or houses. To the cascades and the Pacific Coast where at times it resembled the east yet is different with their vineyards and orchards. Both extremes of drought and lushness. Regardless of the differences in landscape, the thing that remained the same were the people. There are so many amazing people with giving hearts across this country. Welcoming strangers in orange shirts into their churches and homes, cooking meals for hungry bikers.
I loved the build days. We had 9 build days that kept up humble and made us realize even more how fortunate we are. Numerous families we were able to help out, get to know, and give them hope, a home, and a smile! New skills learned, new perspective on the poverty in this country, and the thought of knowing that in the small amount of time in each of these days worked that one hammer stroke, one wall spackled, one piece of trash picked up, one shingle pulled, on room painted made someone else's life better.
I loved the cyclists I shared this time with. It's amazing how quickly a group of people become family. Sleeping, eating, doing laundry, and cycling with them 24/7 - seeing weaknesses, strengths, and their stories are something I cherish.
This ride changed me deep down. It reminded me that I am strong and still able to physically do more than I thought I could. This ride made me slow down mentally and physically. Allowing me to see things, hear things, smell natures fragrance, and feel the freedom that comes with biking everyday. Where your main objectives are to get to the next point, be safe, and live to the fullest. Soaking up as much as possible. Being willing to give, to serve, to be a part of a team. I'm so glad I got to work with this ministry. The Fuller Center is a solid ministry that is helping lives all over the country. I wish that I had the chance to meet and listen to Millard Fuller. I am proud to carry out and in a small way help his dream of ending poverty housing.
To all those that I cycled with, that fed us meals, that prayed, that welcomed us to their churches, that donated, that had some hand in our journey...thank you! It was a fun ride. I hope you enjoyed it too!!
