I'm an "urban hiker"

Recently I have become obsessed with the book, "Irresistable Revolution". In light of this obsession, Luke, Ron and I have had some discussions about how to step out of our comfort zones in ministry. A big part of this discussion has been the desire to live a day(s) in the shoes of our friends at Cross & Crown.

Today was the first of many ventures to come. It was a small adventure, but it was a definite learning experience. Most of our youth either walk or ride the city bus to school. This was our day to experience what they experience on a daily basis.

Ron, Luke and I met at the metro transit bus stop in Edmond at 6:50 AM!!!! That's right folks.. we had to be ready for the bus 2 hours earlier than we normally wake up! We caught the #37 bus and after many stops, we ended up at the downtown bus terminal. From the bus terminal we walked 2 1/2 miles to work. We reached work at 9:00 am. It was obvious I am not a regular pedestrian or bus rider. Ron and Luke joked that I looked like an "urban hiker". I had a backpack in place of my normally HUGE purse. This was equipped with an umbrella, bottled water, lots of quarters( In case of an emergency and I needed to use a vending machine?!?! ha), hand sanitizer, baby wipes and many other handy items. It was after I reached home today that I realized how big of a dork I am. It's just a bus and I packed like I was hiking Everest.

I must admit, the bus is a thrifty alternative but it is very inconvenient. There were many times today I needed to run an errand but couldn't do so, unless Paul didn't mind if I took 2 hours to jog to the pharmacy 3 miles away. Those problems are minor but what about a single mom who rides the bus to work everyday? This "minor inconvenience" might add 2-3 hours to her work day. Which takes 2-3 hours away from her children.

I'm going to continue challenging myself to step out of my comfort zone and walk a mile (or 2 1/2) in someone elses shoes. If anyone has an idea of what our next adventure should be, let me know. I also challenge you to try the same.