I’ve been riding for 11 days now and gone 600 miles.  I’m well behind what I thought I would cover in 11 days.  Originally my plan was to average 70 miles per day.  I’ve had 3 of my days over 75 miles but most closer to 50.  And i’m seriously good with this.  No, really I am!   Normally I’m competitive with myself. Can I go faster, farther, more hills, etc?  But the purpose of this trip is to spend 30 days on a bike to listen to the Holy Spirit, meditate on scripture, spend time in prayer, share my story with folks, and enjoy God’s creation – regardless of the weather, terrain, or sleeping conditions.   I have found that slowing down is part of being obedient to what He has for me.  This morning I was blessed to spend almost 2 hrs in prayer (between stops for pictures and water) all the while riding in awesome scenery.  Slowing down is a good thing.  It allows for conversations with the coffee shop owner, chatting with folks outside the motel, meeting people in the grocery store, seeing the guy at the campsite with the big bass he caught, or the person….  you get the idea.

Other than posting this blog I haven’t looked at news, social media or TV.   I thought I would listen to music most of the time but in reality it’s only during the big mountain climbs when I need a good pace.  So I’ve slowed down my riding pace and slowed down the distractions that get into my head.

I would encourage you to take some time and slow down if possible too. It’s not always possible to do what I’m doing due to work and family schedules I get that. Right now my “job” is to do this. But find some time to unplug. Go talk to folks and ask them about their day. Folks you haven’t even met before. Be available to listen to other peoples stories and be prayerful during those times to see how God wants you to interact. Sometimes folks need prayer, other times an encouraging word, and other times just friendly conversation. I have not been led to share Christ with everyone I meet. But I have been led by Him in many conversations – for what I believe is their benefit. I hope you can join me in slowing down…