This is part 2 of a 3 part series written by FPGW Director of Development and Community Engagement, Beth Schafers. If you haven’t already, check out Part 1 and Part 2.
“I do not understand.” – I say that almost every day while watching the Tour. I literally cannot comprehend how the cyclists involved make their bodies do what they do every day. No matter the obstacle or environment or how long they’ve been sitting on that bike, they JUST. KEEP. PEDALING.
As someone who was once somewhat athletic and has always loved sports, I thought I had seen it all. But my venture into the world of the Tour opened my eyes to a new level of devotion and passion for a sport that will drive people to do all kinds of incredible things. The riders in the Tour not only sacrifice their egos to support their team and their champion, but they completely empty the tank every day and then get right back on their bikes the next day to do it again. If they fall, they jump right back on their bike and take off again.
While I’m astounded at these athletes’ ability to put their bodies and egos on the line in view of victory, it’s nothing compared to what I witness within the walls of Family Promise every day.
Community partners, volunteers and staff members give their blood, sweat, tears, time, resources, and expertise to spur on families to sustainable independence. They put aside personal interests in light of the community and the future for families and do it with smiles on their faces and genuine love in their hearts.
Family Promise families give it all and prove that they truly are champions. They lay it all on the line, willing to work toward their goals passionately with the support of the FPGW community. And every day, even after encountering new hurdles, challenges, and hardships, they get back up and face another day. These incredible humans JUST. KEEP. PEDALING.
Homelessness is a more daunting hill to climb than the steepest slope in the Alps. Tour de France riders have nothing on the determination and grit of Family Promise families. Determined to not only reach independence, but working to make that independence sustainable, is a challenge not fit for the faint of heart. We should applaud loudly and often for those who are willing to conquer such a task to ensure a brighter future for their family.
Beth Schafers serves as the Director of Development and Community Engagement at Family Promise of Greater Wichita. She is passionate about the work of Family Promise, making the Wichita community better for all, and living with no agenda but love. You can reach her at beth@familypromisewichita.org.
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