Training Ground and Wealthy Privilege

This was the view from my training ride this morning.  52 miles.  Moderate wind.

I would never use the word "wealthy" to describe myself, but when I think about the statistics of poverty--nearly half the world's population lives on less than $2.50/day--I realize I am a wealthy Westerner.  Having the option to give up a summer to ride bike to raise money for others is a luxury.  Being able to choose to forgo the comforts of home and live with just 60 pounds of possessions for the summer is a luxury.  

I'm feeling some wealthy guilt today. (You know, like survivor's guilt.)  This started in 2013 with our first Sea to Sea ride and it's coming back again as I train, even though we've made some adjustments in our life style (smaller house, one car, less stuff).

These were some of my thoughts while riding today.

I'll keep this short--I'm writing this from my phone, like I hope to do when we're on the road.