Today we got to meet all of the riders and some of their families. As usual we have folks from all over the country and a large contingent from The United Kingdom. I am very impressed as i have been in years past by the accomplishments of these folks, their dedication and their empty with others. I am the only full tour repeat rider and have fielded a lot of question. It is funny in that I can see myself in their questions and sense of trepidation about the task at hand. I know more about what lies ahead and some of that knowledge helps in preparation but I do share many of the worries.

I have been through the orientation  times now but I always take away a bit more from the 3 hour meeting. Lots of questions, stories, and funny comments. I sense that a high degree of playfulness in these folks. I suspect that practical jokes will be the norm.

The crew added a little skit to the day to emphasize the need for good hygiene at the sag stops. This was a change from prior years as we were told the proceed of cleaning up before we go near the food. A lot of it is common sense but after hours in the saddle and being covered in grime, your first impulse might be to reach in and grab a sandwich. The skit was funny but drove home the concept and we got to have a really race with tongs and cherries afterwards. A sign of a good omen was that my team won but confess we bent the rules a bit.

Many of the group shared some of their favorite quotes and one could tell that some of it was wrought with emotion. Many are riding for a cause and all were quite passionate in doing it. Afterward Tom Dunn shared a quote that he changed from the book, theBoys in the Boat. It was about the 1936 US olympic rowing team that won a gold medal. Coincidentally, I read the book but forgot the quote. Tom adjusted in a bit to fit our (cross country ride) circumstances but I really enjoyed reading it. A great inspiration for us :

“They must possess enormous self confidence, strong egos, and titanic willpower. They must be almost immune to frustration. Nobody who does not believe deeply in himself or herself- in his or her ability to endure hardship and to prevail over adversity- is likely even to attempt something as audacious as” cycling across America.

We are pumped and ready to go. I hope to share memories and stories and allow you to get to know some of the other riders and our experiences along the way. I am beginning to see why Tracy does this and the joy she sees in helping others across the country. Tracy and crew help us all shine and reach our goals. Perhaps our efforts help others to reach theirs as well. None os us are really extraordinary but are ordinary people attempting something extraordinary. The kernel of that lies within all of us and maybe our actions are a catalyst to ignite that spark in others. I love that quote from Marianne Williamson and every once in a moon contemplate her meaning:

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

Thanks for reading.

I am riding for the Wounded Warrior Project but any donations to organizations that helps our veteran are appreciated.

~Chuck