September 6, Reflections

September 6, Reflections A month-long, cross-country, 3,570 mile bike ride reminds us of many life lessons: Having something to positively anticipate, even if accompanied by anxiety, creates new energy. Minimizing the regrets in life is important. Realizing that trying something, as unrealistic as it may seem, and not achieving the goal, carries less regret than not trying an “unrealistic” idea. We can carefully plan in pursuit of a goal, relationship, etc., but we are unable to anticipate all that lies ahead. Surprises are likely. We can learn much about ourselves through taking a risk, pushing our limits, venturing into the territory of the unknown, despite the accompanying anxiety or fear. Perhaps most of the “impossible” or “improbable” can be broken down into manageable pieces. “One day, or mountain, or hour at a time.” We can usually push ourselves beyond what we believe our limits to be. Sometimes we are fortunate. Sometimes not. Pain is sometimes a reality. How we evaluate it, determine risks and integrate it into our lives becomes essential. Much of how we entertain or distract ourselves in life interferes with the pursuit of our goals and meaningful cultivation of our relationships. (I was struck that in knowing nothing of what was transpiring in the world, I missed very little.) Being actively engaged with a task or goal is much more enriching and peaceful than being passively entertained. Joining with others, and even depending on stronger others at times, can make life easier, and even possible. In climbing mountains, the journey is often pretty lonely and one is on one’s own much of the time. Life is like that. Usually, something exists to focus on with worry. A naïve determination to start the day and figure it out along the way can usually carry us through. (I never really had a plan B.) Being held in the prayers of others is quietly comforting and reassuring. Prayer reminds us that we are a part of something much bigger. (My 98 year old mother reminded me each time we talked, that she was holding all of us in prayer.) Our accomplishments are rarely achieved in isolation. Gratitude for the support and encouragement of a team of family, friends and colleagues is honest, connects us with the larger world, and humbles us. Routinely reminding ourselves that all of life is a gift is important. Sometimes we do not fully understand why we want to do something. Sometimes we just “know.” Much of life is a mystery. Often, explaining what we have experienced in a few words is impossible. Truly, “you had to be there.” It was one phenomenal, unforgettable, thrilling, satisfyingly painful month. Life has times that are ineffable, beyond words and explanation. The ride was one of those times. --Ellery Duke, August, 2013