Raising money for MCC is the public reason of cycling to Thompson. But there were private reasons for cycling also. In a year of Covid where one couldn’t do much of anything. It was easy to have felt depressed. Biking for me is a way of dealing with depression, bringing a sense of joy and peace. With that in mind I would like to share 3 highlights from my cycling journey to Thompson.
(1) Cycling with my youngest daughter Chantel for the first two days. We did 199 km’s together. That was really special to share that experience.
(2) Cycling through the wilderness in many ways is like experiencing wilderness experiences in our own life’s. Everyone at some point will have some type of wilderness experience to deal with. Not sure what’s ahead, feeling very alone and wanting it too end once your in it.
Before I began my cycling journey into the wilderness, I waited for the right conditions. Taking two full days off, first day was very smoky and there was a North wind. Next day the smoke cleared but there was still a North wind. Finally when I was ready to enter the wilderness, south winds were blowing. In life as much as possible prepare yourself for those wilderness experiences.
I found a place of refuge just when I needed it to have my lunch. A shelter from the rain, a place to eat and enjoy lunch. So it is in living life, we all need to find a place of refuge at different times.
It can get very lonely when cycling in the wilderness. But the amount of encouragement I got from those driving by was amazing. Many waved or gave honks of encouragement. We all need encouragement when we feel alone in the wilderness.
(3) Having Cheryl provide support the first two and last two days of cycling was really special. Stopping every 10 km’s to have a snack together.
Reflecting on this trip as I dream about the next one, I know there are more experiences waiting. Finally, cycling provides a sense of joy that gives me a new perspective on nature and with those you love. So until next time, let’s find ways to encourage each other. Take care.
Adventures on a bicycle 