Another Ride

I followed up my Friday ride with another one today, even though the trip home Friday evening was physically rough for me. Wind blowing from the north - muscles aching....

I had my mind set on riding today even though the sky was getting darker as the time grew closer to leave.  Then it started to rain, lightening, and thunder.  It was too late to change clothes and catch the el so I forged ahead.  It was raining cats and dogs, so to speak, with lightening and thunder enlivening the ride.  It took only minutes before I was soaked to the skin, but at least the temperature was moderate.

There weren't too many folks out today, surprise, and I didn't see a soul from the end of Grant Park to the Firefighters' Memorial.  The rest of the way from there I saw four joggers and about a dozen riders.  On normal days people are just focused in on their running or riding and really don't pay much attention to others on the path, but it was interesting today as most of those on the south side had a cheery good morning when I passed, so I reciprocated.  It was like an "atta" boy, or girl, for being out in the weather.

The rain let up appreciably for the second half of my ride, but by then it really didn't matter.  A mallard duck was sitting at the McCormick Place waterfall, on the edge of the pool and staring into the falling water.  He didn't notice as I rolled by.  There was a tug boat pushing a construction barge towards the harbor under construction, and that harbor's shore was filled with gulls and geese, scavenging for food.

The Lake was relatively calm considering the storm, and there was more chance of getting splashed by a car or bus when the trail neared Lakeshore Drive than getting hit by a wave.  It was overcast, of course, and most cars and bikes had their lights on.

The whole scenario reminded me of the sermon that Pastor Joy gave yesterday about the presence of God in our lives and how we feel and experience it.  The whole storm was powerful beyond my comprehension, it exerted such strength that we are effected and dwarfed by it.  My ride was longer than normal and a little less certain.  It represented the God that it is beyond us - one that is amazing and awe inspiring.  Then there is the feeling that I had of God's presence - I could feel him/her, and felt that God would guide me safely along my 14 mile journey.  God was with me.

Finally, I took in the sights and sounds of the lakeshore as I rode along and felt that I could internalize the wonders that I was experiencing.  I can appreciate in some small way the significance of our world - its beauty, its significance, and the importance of co-existance.  God was within me.

Maybe a little corny to some, but my God, your God, our God, is always there if we take the time to notice - if we think about it - if we consider the role(s) we are intended to play in our lives.  It is reassuring to me - helps me move forward - helps me to work at staying positive - helps me to always search for my opportunities to serve others.

I hope that your week will present you many chances to grow, and to help others grow.

Take care.