Don't fight the hand of God...

[Erin White]

I talked with the team a bit about purpose this week. I said we are each here for a purpose and that our purpose may end up being totally different than we anticipated coming into the tour. I talked about how we each have something unique that only we can offer to one another/ the churches/ random people we meet/ Africa. Sometimes it’s hard to listen to your own advice…

A week or so into the tour my right knee started hurting. Then on our ride out of Anza Borrego it reached the point where I couldn’t rotate my right knee it hurt so bad…I had to stop. I was mad, disappointed, and discouraged. I rested then tried riding again and had to stop…again. Anger, pain…I felt like I was letting everyone down…I knew I was letting myself down. Every time I saw a rider come in for a water break or lunch the next day I cried…the only thing I wanted to do was get on my bike and ride. It was a hard day. I don’t remember the last time I wanted something so badly. I love my bike and not riding made me feel like a failure to myself, to my team, and to those we are riding for in Africa.

Then today I decided to ride again with the hope of cycling into Texas. It was a great start, my knee hurt a bit but otherwise I felt great…the wind on my face…open landscape all around…my teammates around…beautiful. I am now officially addicted to cycling. Then at the stop (21ish miles) I fell off my bike into a mud puddle and twisted my bad knee. Again…pain…a lot of pain. Every step hurts, every bend hurts. This is when it all clicked for me. Stop fighting the hand of God, Erin. Maybe my purpose is to enable others to do the best ride they can rather then riding my best ride? Being in the van does not disconnect me from providing/serving those in Marsabit, Kenya.

I know I’ll get back out there at some point. My bike longs to get back on the road but for now I will just keep my eyes and ear open to His voice and serve my teammates the best I can.

I have to say I would not be as content if it was not for my teammates. I love the Body of Christ in action. Thank you all for your encouragement and for letting me know that my being in the van has been meaningful to you in some way…it helps…a lot. I also thank God that Criselda is with us now!!! She has known what I needed to hear and has sat through a lot of my tears…thanks. So I will continue to fill water bottles and cheer out the window for the days ahead…so together we can ride:well for Africa.

[Mom Catalano]

Dear Erin - I didn't catch your blog until today, but let me add my voice to the others here. I am Anthony's mom, and as a mom, I am prayerfully thanking God for you in my son's life and journey! Service to Him comes in many forms, and you are living your purpose daily! I told him, when he crashed and cramped and had to ride in the van for awhile, sometimes only God knows why we are moved, or shoved! from the path we have chosen for ourselves! He knows the flight of every sparrow, and how much more are you to Him than a small bird!? We may not know if our purpose of the moment is to change the lives of others, ourselves, or be a piece of a puzzle we can't see. He may have removed you from the road to protect you from something else, or have you ready and available for someone else who needs you. You may never know, but HE does! So, again, I thank God for your presence, even in the van! I know Anthony is blessed to have you near! I'll pray for your speedy return to the road on TWO wheels! I feel your pain (in the knee!).

[Nancy L White]

You'll be riding soon Erin, and you'll be learning something else God has in store for you. Even when you shed some tear, just remember laughing and crying at the same time works wonders. Sounds like you've been need and sucessful even if you weren't riding. Love you.

[Miranda Powers]

Erin I can just see you crying and encouraging others as you fill up water bottles! I'm praying for your recovery but so thankful to see the ways God continues to use you right where He has you. Praying for you friend. Keep riding well for Africa!

[Erik Pelttari]

Thanks for your words teammate. Your passion pushes us, really.

[Erin McDermott]

what a great perspective. i needed to hear this. and even i know (as a non team member) how much of a necessary encouragement and servant you are to your team. and criselda being there is such a blessing for you. im so glad she decided to join you! thanks for all you are teaching me through your faithfulness to God in your perseverance. i can only imagine what you bring to your team who gets to spend each day with you. keep on driving:well. i loved your last line.."so together we can ride:well for africa. awesome.

[Andy]

Erin, I saw from day one you have a great heart for service, and I see that now you are serving in a new way. It sucks not being able to ride; I am currently battling a sore elbow, and all I can do are gym rides in a crowded room with no breeze. But above all, I know your knee will heal, just like my elbow, and then you can keep doing what you love. Your bike has MANY miles left in it. Steel is real :)

[Lani Bruce]

you are so awesome. I positively cannot wait to meet you in Nashville. God IS using you every day in extraordinary ways. We are praying for your healing, and for your continued assurance of your purpose and for His amazing blessing in your life. Thank you, Erin!