M&M's World Tour
A Bike Ride
When Michelle and I set out from St. Louis, we had no idea of what to expect. I suppose the "unknown" was a good portion of what we were traveling for. Never the less, we imagined what the trip might be like, challenges to overcome and lessons to learn. Gratefully, however, we never faced anything as dramatic as we imagined. Not once were we forced to fend off armed bandits with only chain oil and spare spokes to aid us. And we never became desperately lost. Not because of any skills that we possess but because, as we learned, it is impossible to get lost if your only destination is "East" and you have a year to get there.
That is not to say that we were without challenges. Just imagine living with me in a 7'x5'x4' tent for all those months. Sure, I used a 3-pair sock rotation. But it still gets a bit close. We also learned that it rains a great deal more than you realize and that it is foolish to sacrifice the momentum of a downhill after paying so dearly for it.
Most of all, though, we learned how blessed we all are. It is humbling to realize how rich your life is and then question how much you really deserve. We have been blessed with peace and political freedom. We have been given a portion of health and the physical ability to ride bikes. Even more, our lives are enriched by you, our family and friends.
Please ride with us in the MS150 bike tour and/or make a pledge or donation to the MS Society on behalf of our team, the Spokes Helpin' Folks.
Your Friend,
Matthew Linhardt
