Living Intentionally - Stay Behind (Part Deux)

Living Intentionally - Stay Behind (Part Deux)

WHEN WE’RE CYCLING and Steve’s out front, he’s usually cookin’—thus, I have to pedal like there’s no tomorrow just to keep up. But his pace makes me a better athlete (although I’m not so sure his Speedy Gonzales impersonation is doing much for our marriage). He sets goals for us. He encourages me to make it to the next mile marker.

So who is your personal life trainer? Who’s pushing you to become a better, stronger, wiser, more balanced person? Get behind someone who can inspire and motivate you. If you get too comfortable with this scenic ride of life, you’re going to miss out on the adventure.

Self-reliance is important, but to live intentionally, you need to surround yourself with quality people—people who are wise because of experience gained; honorable people who are strong in character and who can provide you a buffer zone when you’re tired; and people who can be objective enough with you to say, “Get your fanny in gear.” Even as a grown-up, you’re still only as good as the company you keep.

In the sport of tennis, the athlete is encouraged to find an opponent who is ranked higher (thus better at the game) to practice with. While I’m sure it is discouraging to lose every week, I completely understand the concept. In order to reach the next level, you need someone who has played this game before to push you to become the champion you can be.

In contrast, if you have chosen a weaker opponent or partner to practice with just to appear to be the winner, you’re really only cheating yourself. It is the same in biking. And in life.

Walk with the wise and become wise;associate with fools and get in trouble. (Proverbs 13:20)

But just a quick note of caution to you as you’re riding around the track of life: while you’re biking behind those who are motivating you, don’t forget that someone may be on your back wheel too.

We’re in this race together.