Reflections

I dusted off my 1984 Nishiki touring bike that has been hanging precariously from two hooks in the garage by the water heater. It was time to get outside and get some fresh air after feeling isolated in the house. What new feelings and emotions during this unique, historical time.

Knowing the truth of Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”, I began to ride my bike to look for the good that may come from this global pandemic. My prayer was, “Open my eyes Lord!” And he did!

What I saw on my 54 minute bike ride around the neighborhood (a very slow pace I might add!) there were many garage doors open with activity going on in them. People cleaning their space, cars being worked on, music being played, the sounds of wood working machines, things being created. Most of the time, garage doors are closed and only opened when one is leaving or coming home. I have often called our community the “the garage door neighborhood”. People come in and out with the door closing or opening, then silence. What I saw on my bike ride was life inside those open garages.

Next, the Lord opened my eyes to children playing on the streets. There was a mother pitching baseballs to her children in a cul-de-sac. Others playing hop-scotch. I have never seen so many bicycles in driveways and families on walks together. There was a sense of life, activity, and community permeating from the normally eerie quiet streets.

Maybe, just maybe, there is good emerging from this crisis. Is this forcing us to slow down, reflect, open garage doors and go on family walks? I know it led me to realize that this old man can still balance a bike! And even more stunning than that, it allowed me to witness life and play on the streets which was beautiful to see. Thank you Lord for opening my eyes.

“Open my eyes so I can see what you show me of your miracle-wonders.” Psalms 119:18

-David Towne