Our town has lost three cyclist during the past three weeks- all killed in accidents involving bike vs. vehicle. Today, I rode past the site of yesterday’s accident. I could feel fear jump my cycling spirit and try to scare it away. This is not the first time. I have vivid memories of getting back on my bike after having lost my father to a bike vs. car accident. A very distracted and drunk driver made a poor choice that day. It is personal but it is also about fear.

How many times have we as members of vibrant and successful organizations resisted an opportunity that may have taken our organization from very good to remarkable? Which donors did we fear to approach? Which person did we never get around to asking to volunteer? Are there partnerships we fear to enter into? Do we have programs, staff, volunteers that we must let go? Is there an elephant sitting in the room that everyone ignores?

Many times it is fear that holds us back from taking a calculated risk. I am certain my father would gladly have taken any of the training rides I took this week. I am certain that the latest cycling victim would have desired one more- if not a lifetime of bike rides. So I cannot succumb to fear and I head to road again. I hope that my faith in the ability and attention of the others that I share the road with will be rewarded. I cannot let my enjoyment of riding be diminished by fear. What I saw today during three and half-hours of riding was remarkable in itself and I am better for the adventure.

What happens when we commit to our talents and do not let fear hold us back?