"LIFE ON THE NARROW PATH: A Mountain Biker's Guide to Spiritual Growth in Troubled Times," by Clark R. Burbidge, Cedar Fort, $10.99, 130 pages
In his new book, "Life on the Narrow Path," Clark R. Burbidge uses fascinating stories from his experiences as a mountain biker to teach principles of truth from the gospel of Jesus Christ. Peppered with quotes from the scriptures and modern-day religious leaders, the author shows how various rides on high mountain trails can be like parables for the challenges of life. The resulting work is an uplifting series of stories and thoughts leading the mind and heart to truths centered on Jesus and his atoning sacrifice.
Beginning with the first chapter, "Dwelling on Obstacles," Burbidge invites the reader to see the importance of having awareness of the world's challenges while avoiding the tendency to dwell on the difficulties that are part of mortality.
"Once I was following a rider down two switchbacks near the bottom of the trail. On the inside of both of these steep downhill turns are sturdy trees. (The rider) focused so hard on the inside of the switchback in an effort to avoid the trail's edge as she attempted the downhill turn that she crashed, impacting solidly, into the tree trunks on both bends. Both times she went over the handlebars and into the tree."
His well-stated principle reads, "There are endless ways we tear ourselves down. Just as in mountain biking, if we dwell on these negative aspects, we will become them."
Chapter 3, "Preparation and Anticipation," holds another jewel of truth gleaned from years of biking experience. Burbidge explains the need for forward momentum when a gear change is necessary on a ride.
"Maintaining momentum makes the climb easier while the early gear shift allows you to avoid the gears shifting during the climb or the chain jumping or slipping while on the hill. A chain that jumps or shifts while you are exerting maximum effort on a climb can cause unexpected pedal slippage, often resulting in a crash or injury."
The lesson here is that acting and living with constant forward motion allow time for adjustments to be made more safely as the perils of life are encountered.
Burbidge has crafted a fine message in this compact and helpful book. Whether the reader knows mountain biking or is more inclined to take lazy Saturday rides through town on the old Schwinn, this volume will be uplifting to the heart and soul seeking solace from the world’s challenges.
Mike Whitmer is a former Scoutmaster who endured several 50-mile bike rides and survived. He blogs at mtwhitmer.blogspot.com, and his email address is grundelwalken@gmail.com.
