8 When Life Gets in the Way

Thoughts on illness, work, family life, tragedy, school.

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trials which are to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake in Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. I Peter 4:12-13 NKJV

It is disheartening when you are able to mountain bike to your soul’s contentment, and then boom—life happens.  Your job demands more time from you; your family begins to warrant your added attention, or you get sick for a week or two (or for months while bones heal). Suffering can happen—even tragedy can strike without notice. It’s amazing how something so “loved” can need to be put on the back shelf, or hung on the bike rack in this case. The back burner is not a place that most people enjoy putting their great ideas, or best hobbies. But, as I so well know, sometimes that is just the way it its.

To me, seven days off my bike seemed like an eternity. Thoughts went through my mind that hounded, tried to beat me down, or discourage me.  It’s while I am down and out that I have felt the challenge; how do I handle this part of my “ride-life?”  Can I successfully navigate this lull with the “No Whining” sign posted?  How do I walk into this demand from life with courage, and not with head hung low? Remembering I am not alone in this; bringing to mind the many times I have felt God’s presence in the midst of trouble. Friends come around and form a covering of encouragement. And, when I looked, my bike was still there waiting. And, when I was able to get back to it, the same joy and thrill came when I was peddling again.

When I’m back on my bike, hammering up the trail, or bombing downhill, my heart brims with gladness, and my mind is rested knowing I did it—I came through to the other side with purpose, and I am ready to tackle the ride. 

Training includes not only the body (on-bike), but also, the mind and soul (off-bike). It is in those quiet moments, although I may not want them, that I can “be still and know that He is God.”  Father, I pray in times when I am the weakest, that you would be strong in me, and through me. Cause me to make the best choices. Then, I know You are with me in life, and getting back on my bike will be even more rewarding.

Challenge 8: Stop and think for a moment; decide if this is the time you need to take a breather and be still.  Are you making it through a difficult time without complaining or bringing others down with you? Have you made up your mind to get through this ‘’storm’’ successfully, doing the best that you can to be still, to breathe, rest? The purest gold glistens brightest after it’s gone through purifying fire. You are not alone.

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