Not For Me!!

As I lie awake, listening to the sirens race to and fro through the
city streets of Vancouver, I have realized the city is no place for
me. With it's nonstop motion and self centered, materialistic
environment feel I am reminded yet again the city isn't for me.

I long for a slower life style, one that allows for relaxation and
taking in all of God's creation. Walking through the city I realized
that the simplest things I have taken for granted. The smell of fresh
cut grass, the cool breeze that is untainted by exhaust, the sound of
the trees swaying in the wind and silence. Not an utter silence, but a
silence that comes when ones is tucked away in the woods, that one
either finds relaxing and peaceful or terrifying.

I long to live where mankind hasn't transformed the wonderous
landscape of our Creator, with blocks of asphault and skyscrapers. I
want to be where people live alongside their surroundings in harmony.
It saddens my heart to hear those who walk the streets talk about the
next bowl they will smoke or the next party they will be at. Then I am
reminded of myself and how had it not been for Christ and His love for
me, how easily I could be one of those people.

My trip has made me see my faith in a different way. I never set a
time aside for God and never have. I feel that each day is a constant
conversation with Him. I feel that my journey reiterated that to me as
I found myself verbally, silently talking and occassionally singing to
God. Thanking Him for the strength to push the pedals, for good
weather, safety, courage, but most importantly thanking Him for saving
a wretch like me and forgiving me for my sins. I long to share what He
has done with me, but feel the city is not the place for me to do
that. I feel maybe I am being called to lead others on adventures that
will challenge them physically, mentally and spiritually so that they
may grow closer to God in their own faith.

I am not a man of many words never have been. I lead by example, but I
have a burning desire to share with others my story, my experiences,
hopes and dreams as well as my fears as a way of leading by example.

I am rambling now so this note will end l, but I hope that this desire
only burns with more passion in the days to come.

Eddie Rose