This is what it's all about

Three weeks ago the 2014 Fuller Center Bicycle Adventure congregated in New Jersey. There was a slight difference this year in that they started the Adventure with a build day in Atlantic City (see "Train wreck and spilled paint") For me this is a great way to start the ride, as we did today in North Chicago. The Brown family's story is of a loving commitment in need of affordable housing. Providence brought this opportunity to them, and Fuller Center for Housing- HeroProjectLakeCounty. This is yet another story of miracles that could be an entire blog within itself- and respect for privacy and time do not allow me to provide details. Let me just say, regardless of your beliefs, if you expose yourself to what is called "God's work", you cannot avoid seeing the work of God. Coincidence is one thing, but coincidence so precisely timed and ordered as is involved in this occurrence (and so many others) lends itself to belief in something. Well, this is how it has worked for me.

A little over a year ago you would have a hard time convincing me people can be this good. I was just going for a bike ride. To date I can easily say I've slept more hours in church than I have hours attending services (due to how we are sheltered on these rides). I had a short gig as a choir boy in the 60's and then a period of desperation that let me to salvation in the 80's, but never really got enough structure in my life, or held true to faith consistently enough to attend regularly. Let's just say I've struggled through life. I've taken to hanging around with "right folk" and some of it has rubbed off of them, and onto me. It feels right.

Studies have shown a key to happiness is to help other people. Science and statistics are good, but this isn't anything new and has been attested to and proven throughout mankind's history. As much as it isn't the reason any of us should help another, it can't be avoided that it improves my life more than I can ever improve another's. As everyone else, I did what I could today- a tiny contribution to a young family that makes little difference in this world, but a world of difference in them, and me. I can't suggest it strongly enough; give of yourself, share your abundance, and I assure you will find deeper meaning in your life. Volunteer. Donate. You'll like it.