Numbers matter in these kinds of things because, generally speaking, the more cars and bikes you have; the more creativity, imagination and stories you have to share.
That's the real draw of the Cruise that those who come rarely or not at all just don't get. Every single car (we had nearly 2,000 last night) has a story behind it; whether of years of sacrifice or a successful IPO. (There was one "original" Shelby
Cobra last night ..at least..worth about 500K driven there by a sharp business guy who loves cars like some people love football, art, or music.)
This has become an amazing family event as well. There are hundreds of kids walking with their parents up and down the aisles; or in their special area having a blast and making memories. One young guy heading off to college today stopped me and said awkwardly," thanks for doing this, it brought my dad and me together". Put a price on that..
There were about 10,000 folks that visited the Cruise last night; whether with a "show" car or just as a spectator. I've witnessed scores of "reunions" of people who had not seen each other in years and cross paths at the Cruise. Where else does that happen "weekly" for the summer?
Both of those numbers put this event in some "rare air". My home Church folks now 'yawn' at these reports, but others don't. To be the largest event of it's kind in the USA (of any significant hobby) is an amazing achievement; one that we never set out to accomplish.
The core of it all are the volunteer leaders who work with a couple of staff folks to set up, oversee, and put away an amazing amount of equipment every Friday.
As one of the "Team Leaders" said to me last night:"It's really cool to be part of something so big, that blesses so many, that you could never do on you own, it's just bigger than 'me'!"
We had some testy folks last night. Traffic coming in was horrible on all area roadways; and we ran out of "show" parking..but those few critics were overshadowed by the thousands of smiles, laughter, 'wows' and handshakes that were all over the property.
That's why next week, our "Grand Finale" may be the largest ever. People know a good thing and they tell their friends. I wish that we in the Church had the same passion as some of these folks. In time, I suppose. All I am certain about is that God has put the pieces together to make something "bigger than me" that blesses thousands every week. I am humbled to be part of it.
Jay
1 comment:
It is amazing to see all the different ways our Lord has worked through you. I pray that he continues to bless other (as well as yourself) through your willingness to obey him.
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