Wrights On A Mission

Today started much earlier than we would have liked. The alarm went off around 5:30 a.m. as we prepared for another long day on the road. We needed an early start to break down camp, pack the bikes, and make it to our destination by evening. Our journey today would take us from Bemidji, Minnesota, to Williston, North Dakota.

After loading the bikes, we pulled out of the KOA campground around 8:00 a.m. The morning air was brisk, with temperatures hovering around 55 degrees. Unfortunately, the clear blue skies only stayed with us for about 30 miles. Ahead, dark clouds gathered, and before long the rain began to fall. We pulled over briefly to secure our camera equipment and prepare for the weather. I already had my rain gear on, but Melvin wasn’t quite as prepared.

For the next hour, we battled rain, cold temperatures, and strong winds. Eventually, we stopped at a gas station to warm up with a much-needed cup of coffee. Looking back, it wasn’t a coincidence that we stopped at that particular station. God provided a divine appointment. We had the opportunity to talk with the cashier, share our stories, and pray together before continuing our journey.

After Melvin geared up for the weather, we hit the road again and spent another hour riding through rain and gusting winds before finally seeing patches of blue sky ahead. Tired, wet, hungry, and chilled to the bone, we rolled into Rugby, North Dakota.

While there, we stopped at the monument marking the Geographical Center of North America and grabbed a photo before enjoying lunch at a nearby Mexican restaurant. The break was exactly what we needed. Refreshed and refueled, we climbed back on the bikes and continued west along Highway 2.

The scenery was classic North Dakota—wide open farmland stretching to the horizon in every direction. You could see for miles ahead. While the rain had finally stopped, the wind showed no mercy. Temperatures climbed to around 69 degrees, but our focus remained on keeping the bikes steady as powerful crosswinds pushed us sideways across the road. I’ll gladly take strong winds over pounding rain, but neither makes for an easy ride!

After a few more gas stops and many more miles, we met another interesting traveler along our journey—a gas station employee who shared his story with us. We gave him one of our “What Would Jesus Ride?” tracts, and when asked what Jesus would ride, he quickly answered, “A trike!” He explained that it was what he hoped to own someday so he could get back to riding with his wife. Encounters like these remind us why this trip is so special. It’s not just about the places we visit; it’s about the people we meet and the stories we share along the way.

As the day drew to a close, we eagerly headed toward Williston, where we were scheduled to meet members of the CMA Peacemakers Chapter. We arrived at the home of Earl, the chapter chaplain, and were immediately welcomed like family. The chapter had organized a backyard barbecue in our honor, complete with incredible food, warm fellowship, and hours of great conversation.

As we sat together and shared stories late into the evening, we were reminded once again of God’s goodness. We arrived as strangers, but we will leave as lifelong friends. Their kindness, generosity, and hospitality were a tremendous blessing to us.

Day 5 brought challenging weather, long miles, and relentless winds, but it also brought divine appointments, meaningful conversations, and new friendships. Those are the moments that make this journey far more than a motorcycle trip—they make it a mission.

Miles traveled: 362
Route: Bemidji, Minnesota → Williston, North Dakota

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” — Hebrews 13:2