I'm climbing. Knees aching, quads burning, and mouth open. Pant, pant, pant. I'm working out. But, I've been doing so for the past seven hours. Am I twisted? Do I enjoy the prolonged burn? I do. But, I guess given the location in which this post is being made coupled with the individuals most likely reading this blog, there is little need for explanation. I'm riding across the country, and in the process trying to raise money for cancer research. I've given the same spiel to at least one individual each for the past few days. But, often it is difficult to picture the separation between concept and execution until actively engaged in the task.I like cycling. I love it, to be honest. And if it were up to me, I would be doing it for hours on end anyway. But, I never considered how difficult it would be to do it every single day. But, even then, my struggles are rather trifling. And I guess while writing this blog, all I can think about is the insignificance of my struggles. I've found myself finishing each day in about the same way. A little tired, a little darker ( I don't burn thankfully), and a whole lot hungrier. On the roughest of days, there might be a little road rash or knee pain mixed in.But, throughout my time, I've only been able to consider how lucky I am. How each day ends with me meeting some of the most amazing people ever. Being welcomed into a warm church or home, often being served some delicious food, and completing most days with a fantastic shower.What about those currently engaged in the fight against cancer? Do they have the metaphorical equivalents of a warm bed and food in their struggles? Do they get to indulge after their struggles each day? Each cancer patient is constantly in a struggle that could be considered the hardest of mountain climbs. And while I take solace in the knowledge that my climb, regardless of grade, will eventually change...each cancer patient continues his climb with no definite chance of completion. And while we expect many to metaphorically finish the climb, the sad truth is that millions do not.My first post seems to have come to an end on a rather dark note. But, it seems necessary to begin on a somber note. I'll try to talk about the awesome sights I have seen and great food I have had on this journey. But, given I'm not the kind of person that cares much for surroundings, and food is food... I'll spend most of my time talking about the amazing ride and the fantastic people I see on the way. Thanks for reading peeps.