Open discussion

I just want to take a quick moment to clarify and respond to the anonymous comments about the the sweep team.
First, It was never my intention to mislead anyone with my blog. I have written exactly what we were told and what was discussed later among the cyclists. If you read it again, I did state that I understood that I had not been part of the decision and therefore I may not have all the pieces to the puzzle. As a matter of fact, last night, I spoke with one of the leadership member about my concerns as I fully believe that when you are in disagreement with your brothers and sisters you are to go to them and make peace before you go before God. They did give me some more insight about the decision. Apparently, some riders had been feeling "pushed" by the sweep team. So this was the solution that was suggested. I'm not sure if the "passing" option is the best one or maybe there may be some better options. I had an open discussion with the leader about some alternatives and we will see how it goes. I wasn't a part of SeaToSea2005, but I did discuss it with several people involve before I made my commitment, including SAG team members, this option was never told to me. There is never an easy answer or even one right one but being open, talking things through and praying for God's guidance is always the best approach.

Second, My ride and the responsibility to my community and my supporters. In no way am I riding each day with the intent of taking as much of the SeaToSea resources -both physical and spiritually-for my own enjoyment. Anyone who knows me and/or has cycled with me, I believe,can testify to this. I am usually very self aware of my limits and abilities and try to gage a balance in my ride and in my interaction with the SeaToSea community. Yes I knew this was not going to be easy pleasure ride but my sponsoring church, friends and family aren't supporting me in the Tour du France either. I did not just slack off and not train or work my fund raising. I did not come in with unreliable or inappropriate gear and supplies. Each cyclist here has their own approach to the tour. I do not disparage those who take off first for a fast ride and are working hard to finish each day or those who are unprepared for what they have committed to do and of course there are the masses that fall somewhere in between.That is the true beauty of this Sea To Sea community and my hope and prayer is that God's love will bridge the gaps between these approaches so that each may appreciate and accommodate each other in some way.
Finally, let me be absolutely clear, in no way do I see an overly uncaring attitude in the Sea to Sea community on this tour. In stark contrast, I have been blessed in so many ways and feel privileged to give all that I can to make this experience better for everyone. But we all fall short of the glory of God, myself included and under these extreme situations a "look out for yourself" instinct can kick in. We're tired, hot, have a lot of pressure each day and sometimes need to be reminded that even though you and your bike are one, this is a team effort. May we all have the grace of forgiveness in the times we fall short.

I hope this clarifies my thoughts and feeling to those who were upset by my postings. I'm sorry that you didn't feel comfortable in leaving your name, it can be hard to disagree. I pray for peace between us and throughout the Sea To Sea community during this taxing week