From Rich Dixon:

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Remember our tiny seven-person team for year one of the FREEDOM TOUR?

I was humbled, and bit intimidated, as I faced the initial “Helmets Up” circle for year two. This herd would ride the first day, then a 15-person team would complete the 500-mile journey.

I sent this parable to our team members in advance, along with a few reflection questions.

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There’s a story of a mom (back in the day) who gave her little boy some money and asked him to ride his bike to the corner store to buy a half-gallon of milk.

“I want you to ride straight to the store, buy the milk, and ride right back home.”

“Okay, Mommy,” replied the boy.

It was a glorious summer afternoon, filled with the sort of things that interest little boys more than half-gallons of milk. He investigated a few bugs, played with a dog, chatted with the old man down the street, and watched some older boys shoot baskets.

After a couple of blocks and several mental detours, his mom’s complicated instructions faded into the warmth of the afternoon. All he recalled was “… ride right back home.” He knew that part was important.

So, he turned and pedaled as fast as possible for home. Bounding into the kitchen he announced, “Mom, I’m home.”

“Honey,” she asked, “where’s the milk?”

The little boy looked dejected. “But Mom, I came right home, just like you said.”

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He completed the ride but forgot the milk. The milk was the whole reason for the trip.

What’s the “milk” for you on this tour? What’s the ultimate purpose, that essential element that makes it all worthwhile? What’s at the center, so critical that reaching the goal without it would render everything else meaningless?

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You and I aren’t doing a 500-mile bike tour, but each of us is on a journey. It’s easy to get distracted.

What’s your “milk?”

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Note from Jon: In less than a week, the money for a new hand-powered cycle is almost raised. Thank you. This is awesome.