Sunday, July 19, 2009

Diamond in the Ruff

Idaho.... who knew? Who knew that I could make it all the way from Virginia to Idaho. Who knew that Idaho contained some of the strongest head winds experienced on this trip? Who knew that it Boise, ID would be the hottest city visited thus far on this trip at over 100 degrees? Who knew that Stanley, ID would be coldest city visited on this trip while camping in 30 degree weather? We were told that Idaho would be a hidden gem.... that person was right. Who knew?

We had our final Build Day in Idaho Falls, ID. I volunteered to shingle the roof of a new Habitat house and dragged Nick and John to join me. Despite gusts of wind at 35 mph and a few shingles that were sacrificed to the Westerly winds, it felt so good to be up there hauling bundles of shingles over my shoulders and working with those guys. When is all said and done, I'm a fairly simple guy... I just love to be physically active. At the end of a hard day's work and a large appetite, the pastor of the local Presbyterian church invited us to his home for a BBQ. Over the course of three rounds of food and of course desert, I had a wonderful conversation with a local attorney about our trip. It was great to recall some of the random stories from different states.

However, I need to jump on a quick tangent. On this trip, we have stayed in more than 55 different churches. Ranging from conservative to progressive, there is a strong consistent theme that needs to be highlighted. All of them.... and I mean every single one has been extremely hospitable to our cause and to our group by providing a place to sleep and often a warm meal.

I began this trip in hopes of discovering a professional direction in my life by cycling 3,500 miles. To be honest, with 3,000 completed and only 500 remaining, I am still just as lost as I was at the beginning of this trip.... if not even more so. I'll admit, it's extremely frustrating at times, but there is a significant shift in my process of thinking. No longer is there doubt about what I can acheive or if I will be successful. This trip has taught me that I can accomplish anything. I have too strong of a work ethic and I care too much in order to not be succesful. My thinking now focuses on WHAT to do I want to do. So, where am I now in this search? I'm at the point where I need to relax, enjoy this last week, and trust that I'll find that calling.

Tomorrow, we enter Oregon. The last state. The final stretch. With a little bit of pain in my left knee, I'm ready to tackle the high desert of Eastern Oregon, climb over Mt. Hood pass, descend into Portland, chat with my favorite barista at the Clearing Cafe, see my sister and brother, and celebrate in the Pacific Ocean with the whole group. Thanks for all your support.

I'll end this now. I need to get back to writing post cards.

Dave

2 comments:

  1. Even though you feel lost it appears you know exactly where you are going - The Pacific Ocean. keep the Faith Bro!
    Doug S

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