Group shot

As I look back on my training for the event, I can’t help but feel that I was destined to have this experience. As esoteric as that may sound, there certainly were many synergistic moments and of course there were some very significant lessons learned.

Working with a team of people that all held a common goal was awesome. There was something truly wonderful about working together, for an outcome that is greater than any individual effect or result. In speaking to my teammates and other participants I found that the common thread of their motivation to do the century was to help others that were faced with the incredible challenge of Leukemia and Lymphoma. In delving further, I found that they couldn’t quite explain why they came to the decision to put forth this kind of physical and mental effort other than they just wanted to make a difference in the lives of those who needed it most – except that they also wanted to challenge themselves.

The event had 3,500 cyclists from across the nation who participated. 1,800 of the 3,500 represented the same charity I did – the Team in Training for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. It was incredibly inspiring to observe the various difficulties and motivations associated with each individual that came out and put their whole heart – and lungs! – into the event.

So, back to the lessons…In part one, I mention the belief you can do something that seems insurmountable. Here is more food for thought: Eleanor Roosevelt said “Do one thing every day that scares you”. That might be a tall order for most of us – but why not try to do something you’ve never done before once a year?

This event scared the heck out of me – but I will have the memories that will last a lifetime, the good feeling of knowing I made a contribution to people living with Leukemia and Lymphoma – not to mention the increased benefit of increased fitness and health!

The big pay-off about trying challenging new things is the benefits you reap. Yes, it’s scary and creates apprehension. It takes great courage to live out a plan with a question mark at the end. Yet the benefits are more than worthwhile. Why? Because each time you do this, the day-to-day challenges of life seem simpler, and easier to handle. After climbing a mountain, public speaking for the first time, or jumping out of a plane with only a parachute – other challenges of living seem just a little easier. Not to mention the sense of accomplishment that gives you an awareness of inner strength.

Now, I’m not suggesting that any or all of the above is for everyone out there – I just don’t think we should sit on the sidelines. I believe we are creators of all we experience – so we can make the decision to find the life in our living – or not. My sincere wish is that you recognize the tremendous courage you show every day in this life. That with each challenge you reaffirm your decision to learn – and to embrace challenge with each day.

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