The famous Stoic Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius once said, "We should not say- I am an Athenian or I am a Roman but I am a Citizen of the Universe. "The City of Peace men decided we would put this theory to the test as we loaded into a van for the annual "Men's Weekend Trip."
Our multi-nationalgroup headed North for a full day of biking and near-death experiences through the Yorkshire forest. I may never understand exactly why it is that men find themselves compelled to self-torture. I found myself tempted part way through the trip to bargain with God, "If you'll just get me through this, I'll never do anything wrong again. I promise to be a good boy and to serve you without asking for anything ever again. " We started the trip around 11:00 a.m. by heading straight uphill. I don't know about anyone else, but my legs felt like fire and ice by the time I reached the top of that first hill. We then road over hill and dale, through fields of grazing sheep, across pristine creeks of running water (I promised not to tell who drank the water after the sheep marched across upstream), and around the periodic lake.
Individual members of our group clearly distinguished themselves, and I am happy to report a few first place awards here.
* Henk Van Der Meer was the first to demonstrate an almost acrobatic ability to roll head-over-foot- without ever stopping or breaking bones.
* Minaar was the first to draw blood.
* Robert and Roelof tied for first place as the oldest and youngest who can push their bikes uphill while walking uphill in a slumped position uphill, breathing heavily uphill.
* Sarj the first to identify the stopping point for the day.
* Henk Bouma the first to identify the only living Coptic Priest in the entire country of England.
The group agrees that we can't wait until the next "Men's Weekend Trip" which is sure to include less driving, more fellowship, and great food.
All kidding aside, we are happy to report that a wonderful weekend was had by all. We ate some really good food, enjoyed the hospitality of Simon's parents (who were out of town at the time), and got to know one another justa little better. This is an amazing group of men, and we are all better for having spent time together. - Robert
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