I have come to believe that unconventional meditation is what works for me. I’m not one to sit quietly for a period of time – my mind wanders too much. But stick me on a bicycle in a quiet woodsy setting, and my mind clears like magic. I am open to God’s message for me.

This morning, I woke up while it was still dark; in a few weeks that will change, when we set the clocks back an hour.  So, my bike ride started out in limited visibility. There’s very little traffic in my neighborhood that early - mostly other bikes, a few dog-walkers, and a golf cart or two. The lawn crew gets out around seven, but when I saw a vehicle approaching, I’d just flick on my little  flashlight so they could see me.

It was comfortable - short sleeve weather in the mid sixties and I enjoyed the quiet time. I ride about 3.5 miles – my bike has no gears so if I want to go faster, I must pedal harder. What a great way to combine exercise with meditation – multi-tasking at it’s finest!

While I was riding, I thought about my day yesterday, and reviewed my opportunities to be of service to others. Presently my husband is the regular recipient of my giving. He broke his wrist about eight weeks ago and the cast came off on Tuesday. I’ve been applying lotions and creams to his dry skin as he requests it. He’s rather self sufficient. I think part of service to others means not to shove it down their throat. I have learned with Dave, to offer, and then let it go. He will ask when he needs help. My part will be to stop what I’m doing, whenever possible, and help. He doesn’t ask that often so I need to be ready.

In thinking about today, I know I will see several people, as I run errands and keep appointments in the ‘big city’ (Orlando). When I pray in the morning to be of service to people, it sets the tone for the day, and I find myself looking for opportunities. Sometimes it is to give anonymously, and others, just striking conversation with a stranger. It’s right there, when my heart is open to giving.

I also think about others as I ride, and pray for them. My sister is waiting for some test results, so I prayed for good news. A neighbor is traveling – I asked for their safety. Keeping it simple, just kind of talking with God like I would a friend on the phone, works best for me.

So, I’ll probably never qualify for guru of Tibet status, but meditation on the bike for me. Thinking outside the box can result in finding what works for you too.