Do you remember what you were doing on the morning of Saturday, October 3? There are at least 15 of us who remember that day quite clearly. Eva, Mark Booker, Nathaniel, Noah, Bob Knechtel, Connie Lacey, Peter Lacey, Allison O’Connell, Roderick, Ellie Peters, Kim Pope, Barb Rozell Knechtel, Chuck Thompson, April Brien and Ray Brien rode in the annual Ride For Refugees in Waterloo.
It was a cool, windy, rainy day that even brought some sleet. We met at Creekside Church on Conservation Drive, handed in our pledges, registered for the ride and received our ride shirts. After a couple of minor repairs to team members’ bikes, we were on our way.
The wind and hills challenged us, but the sun showed itself a few times, and the rural scenery of west Waterloo was delightful! The Ride For Refugees organizing committee had several wayside stops for us with snacks and water and apple cider available. These stops also gave us an opportunity to speak to other teams and to learn about their projects for refugee assistance. There were film crews on the scene, too, and patrol vehicles checking on us frequently.
The rain did come, along with a little bit of thunder and lightning and there was sleet, too. But we met the challenge, and all finished our chosen distances, wet, weary, and extremely satisfied.
I nearly forgot to mention the food and lovely reception that was served after the ride. There was much encouragement and sincere appreciation for our participation in the project, and there was wonderful, warm food, as well as more camaraderie among the teams.
Our team’s financial goal was $5000, and we fell somewhat short of that by raising $3500; but the good news is that half of that $3500 will come back to our church for work with refugees.
Thank you, Highland friends, for helping us to help refugees at Highland Baptist Church, in our community, and around the world.
Perhaps you’ll consider riding with the group next year. It’s an amazing experience for a very worthwhile cause.
Maybe I’ll be around next year to ride?
Having you ride with us next year would be great. Heather and your family are also welcome.
Bob