What will I take away from Sea to Sea 2013?
First, we didn't end poverty. Like Jesus said, we'll always have poor among us. The job isn't over, and frankly, we can't solve this one. Poverty (like violence and war) is so deeply ingrained in the kingdom of darkness that only the final and complete victory by the King will truly eliminate it. We were obedient on our part. He'll be faithful to return and rule. I can't wait.
Second, I learned a lot about bike repair and long distance riding. If you ever do a cross country trip, choose strength over light weight and buy components that will be easy to find replacement parts for them. I know that I'll never buy a Mavic wheel set or a Giant bicycle. The Mavics were too fussy and Giant's customer support was less than helpful. I am very pleased with the performance of my trusty Cannondale, however. Next time, I might even try a recumbent, but don't tell Rudy and Shirley Folkerts I said that. :-) It was my privilege, however to fix what I could and keep so many people on the road. A real highlight for me.
Third, I learned a lot about group leadership on his tour. It's very clear to me that groups cannot be led by a committee. A person has to stand in front and accept the responsibility for the direction. People will follow a good leader. People won't follow a leader they can't trust. People don't follow committees.
Fourth, I learned a bit about human nature. We can all put on a good front for about two weeks. After six weeks, the facades are all gone. Put people into closed quarters for nine weeks and "the cream will rise to the top."
Fifth, I learned you can't really do something like this alone. From cooks to drivers to SAG people, we needed each other. There were days when you felt strong and could pull weaker riders. There were also tough days where others helped and encouraged you to finish. So thanks, Len. Couldn't have done it without you. (When's the last time...)
But I couldn't have done it without people at home and across Canada and the US who supported, encouraged, prayed for us and helped us raise the necessary funds. You made the tour happen. Thank you!
And lastly, none of us could have done anything without the Lord's constant care. He made things happen we could never have done. The tour was done in His Name; to Him goes all the credit and honor.
Thanks for reading my blogs during this trip. I've been gratified that it helped some of you join the journey. Together with other blogs, I hope we were able to give you a good feel for what we experienced.
So, for the last time: Farewell and God be with you.
