5 Small Beginnings

Do not despise small beginnings for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin,…  Zechariah 4:10 NLT

 No matter how expensive my newest bike was, there’s no memory so great as the one that includes my first mountain bike.  For me, it was a Specialized HardRock.  It carried me over my first trail, Miller Canyon, in Cochise County, AZ, and every other trail, and I began each ride with great expectancy.

 As I rode the trails that first year, the case of “what you don’t know can’t hurt you,” didn’t apply.  I found that the heavier the bike, with no suspension, could send me flying onto my back on a rugged downhill.  However, there is a rite of passage so-to-speak, when beginning the mountain biking sport. It brings an attitude of gratitude to begin with a heavy, rigid bike, and then move up to a full squish. I had not yet felt the deep cush of full-suspension, and I enjoyed my bike to the limit.

 Anyone can bomb downhill, but there is certain satisfaction in watching a mountain biker who has paid his dues, and gained needed skills as well as speed when maneuvering the trail. A rider who makes it look easy, is one who has learned to choose the best line, knows just how fast or slow to ride on certain sections to clear gaps, when to grab air on kickers, or huck sick drops.

Only fellow mountain bikers can appreciate their first bike, their first ride, and their first fall. Learning, growing, and moving on are all part of becoming experienced on the trail. It’s a good memory to think back and laugh at the “firsts’’ of my mountain biking challenges.  It’s a memory not to be mocked—but rather, considered necessary to my mountain biking experience.

 Father let me not take your great sacrifice on the Cross for granted.  Cause me to remember the road you walked, the life you lived, and the price you paid to bring me to you. Thank you God, for your full payment, and for the “full life” you offer.

Challenge 5: Remember your first bike?  Did that bike help you to reach the level you are at now?  How can you encourage new riders to be patient with themselves, and lead them to work hard for those riding skills they will need for what lies up ahead?  Today, be the one who paves that trail and inspires those behind you. 

Comment section: please be sure to let me know you stopped in. If you feel up to it share a few lines about your first bike, your first ride, or what has lead you to my blog post.