Enjoy the Ride

The Patten Family recently took up biking as a hobby. When we first decided on biking, we forgot to take into consideration that we live in a valley. Its uphill every direction from our house...

As we set out on our first family biking adventure, it seemed like the top of the driveway would be a good destination. It became increasingly clearer that the hills of our driveway look a whole lot steeper from a bike seat. With the girls in tow behind Matt and myself in my own bike, we rode for a bit, took a break, drank some water, tried not to die- repeat.

Our summit was moving closer, but our stamina was wearing out. We could see that we were almost to the top and persevered- legs wobbly and gasping for air. At the top, the bikes were thrown to the ground and we sat in the middle of the road, hoping someone wouldn't come by in a car because we didn't think our legs would get us off the road.

The way down was a completely different story. The bikes did all the work and we were just along for the ride. I was going so fast at one point I was sure I was going to wreck. But I kept the bike upright and arrived at the house full of adrenaline, with Matt and the girls quickly behind me. We were all smiles and looking forward to doing it again.

As I thought about our ride later, it occurred to me that it was a lot like owning a business. Many of us are on the uphill side, working so hard to get to the summit. The only problem? We can't see where the top is. Some of us give up before we get to there. We miss out on the thrill of success or making a difference. But I can tell you from experience, that downhill ride is so much more exhilarating than you can ever imagine.

So if you feel like your legs are giving out and you can't catch your breath, maybe your summit is right there and you just need to give yourself one more push. Then hang on tight and enjoy the ride!!

-Much Love,