Saturday, May 15, 2010

Struggles

There are so many things in life that we as people (and human beings) struggle with. Many of times we are aware of our struggles. Perhaps we even put our own selves in the situation on purpose. For instance, the bike ride for MS that I did. I on my own, put myself in a struggling situation. I hadn't rode a bike since junior high and then I committed to riding one for 63 miles. With that being said, it was a good struggle.

Other times there are struggles within ourselves. For instance it could be what we want to be when we grow up, how to deal with a loss in our life, or simply a way to get through the day. It is hard to deal with these struggles as there is no cure, there is no remedy and there is no definite end. When times like this arise, I am reminded of a sign that my friend has hanging by her front door. Much like the Footprints poem, remember you are not alone. Her sign reads:

"To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did. When God takes something from your grasp, He is not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better. The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you. Something good will happen to you today."

I hope you have a fantastic day and that you will remember the above quote when you have a struggle of any kind.

Thanks for listening,
Sheryl

Saturday, May 8, 2010

MS Bike Ride

Hello all! It has been quite some time since I have last been on here. The time came closer and closer to the bike ride for Multiple Sclerosis and I found myself consumed. I was on the bike 6 days a week and my last ride ended up being 44 miles. The thing is, is that the path that I have been riding for the 6 weeks prior to the ride is only 7 miles in length. So to ride it back and forth for hours can get pretty mundaine.

As I prepared for my ride, I was also planning travel, working, and continuing to fundraise for MS. We left and were off to the Martha's Vineyard. The weather was fantastic! Apparently the last 3 or 4 years it was just cold. People were wearing earmuff and gloves. This year it was upper 70's and sunny. I told everyone that I packed the sun in my suitcase and brought it with me from Atlanta. I actually have suntan lines on my legs from my bike shorts.

There are a lot of hills in Martha's Vineyard. I had no idea! The first 23 miles were nothing but hills but after that, it was a slight incline and riding along the coastline. Just beautiful! I finished in just under 6 hours with 3 water breaks and a 20 minute lunch break. 6 hours was my goal so I am very pleased with myself.

All in all I raised nearly $2,500 for MS and had the experience of a lifetime! I was able to ride for those who can't. I was able to ride for those who some can't even walk. I was able to raise money from family and friends to help find a cure for MS.

Thank you all who donated and supported me throughout the journey.