Living in tandem
A few weeks ago, I was driving home when I noticed something somewhat unique: a man riding a unicycle down the sidewalk. I have no idea where he was going or how far he planned to travel. As I sat at a red light, I marveled a bit at how he was able to stay upright, all while navigating the uneven sidewalk with general ease. And I wasn’t alone. I looked around and the drivers in cars around me were all watching intently, as well. I can’t say I have any ambition to learn how to ride a unicycle. But I’m sure impressed by those who can.
So imagine my surprise when, just a couple days later, I was driving in a different area of town and noticed two people riding a tandem bike along the bike path. I watched as they pushed off together and pedaled in stride, and before long, my car passed by.
As I drove on, I was mentally comparing the skills one needs for a unicycle vs. a tandem bike. I started to wonder why I was initially so much more impressed with the solo rider as opposed to the team. When, in so many ways, teamwork and community are no small feats.
The truth is, we often place a lot of importance on going it alone. From a very early age, kids learn the phrase “I can do it!” or we praise them by saying “You did it all by yourself!” As if it’s more impressive or extraordinary when we accomplish something all on our own.
On the other hand, it can often feel like we’re admitting defeat when we ask for help. We resist teamwork or reliance on others because we think we’re supposed to be able to do it all by ourselves.
As people of faith, though, we get to live with a different perspective. God actually designed us to live and work together, to encourage and support one another. God created us for community. We need each other. We’re better off when we lean on others in the midst of our struggles, knowing that we’ll return the favor when they need the same. There’s a reason Jesus chose to be surrounded by a dozen (or likely more!) friends and disciples. He was on to something—we’re better when we work together.
This Thanksgiving, my hope is that you’ll think of your life more like a tandem bike than a unicycle. God has given us the gift of relationship and connection, friendship and a community of faith we call a church. We are surrounded by the opportunity to connect, to care deeply for others, to look out for everyone’s best interest, and pick up the slack (or pedaling) when another is too tired to keep going.
Who are you thankful for? And how have they helped support you along the way? As you name your gratitude today, may you give thanks for the people riding alongside you and consider the ways you support others, too.
Marcia Jensen
And God is always in tandem with us! We are never alone.
Anke Maass
Great seeing the oneness but better working together!! So grateful for family, friends and church family!!
Judi Berkley
Excellent insight!
Nancy Hultquist
We are thankful for YOU, Pastor Katy~ and our entire St. Paul family. Blessings to you this Thanksgiving Day.