We call them wish lists, or for you cinematically influenced, bucket lists. They are things we wish to do, want to have, places to visit, or desires to fulfill before we die. Or are too old and feeble to enjoy them. And although it is fun to dream like that, sometimes the reality of attaining those wishes isn't quite as much fun as the anticipation of it. Perhaps Sam Clemens, aka Mark Twain said it best, "the only thing worse than not getting your heart's desire is getting your heart's desire." And I think we have all been there, on both sides of the equation at times in our life.
The advertisers somehow keep us on the edge of our seats waiting for next year's bikes to come out. Thanks to the internet, we have spy photos, and spy shots, with computer enhanced drawings of what the new GSCBKH RocketCycloneLow Rider will be. And thanks to their enchanting words and photos, somehow our old bikes seems just that-old. What was last years dream, is now this years how do I sell it to get the newest one? And in a market where Harley's new models are mostly colors, the Japanese shave .001 seconds off the 1/4, and Ducati comes out with another narrow focus ride that once you've shown all your friends you park and ride something else, we line up for the latest and greatest. All at a higher price, while our old had to have it last year dream loses value. With a simple formula-lust, buy, sell at a loss, and repeat. At least we are all consistent.
I almost broke that mold once, having owned my FJ1100 for almost 10 years. A record for me. But after buying my first new Triumph, they have a 2 year, unlimited mile warranty, I figured every two years I would have a new bike, and never be out of warranty. But like I found out, while looking ahead, I was missing the joy of riding what I had, and finally broke the habit after six years. Thanks to no money, and a reduced ego, I began enjoying what I had even more, and found out high mileage was more of a bragging right than a new bike. And I still stick to that today, as my highest mileage bike is my 2006 Tiger with 67,000, and my lowest my 2006 Scrambler with 19,000. Theresa's Bonneville with 67,000 is still highest, but I added the first 26,000. Still, how many women do you know have ridden over 40,000 miles in the last five years? High miles, means more memories, and of course more maintenance. And I still find oil changes and tires less expensive than paying more my latest gotta have 900 for 60 months. You do your own math.
Long term relationships take time. Like, duh. But they also take a commitment, a commitment of more than your monthly payment. It takes a commitment, an investment of time and emotions-for riding a motorcycle, like a relationship with God, is a personal thing. God, wife, family, motorcycle. Keep them in order, and you should do well. Get them out of order, and maybe that is why you see so many low mileage, late model bikes for sale-due to a divorce. And when it is too late, start the process all over again. And some never get it, like my friend, Rick the attorney. Who on his latest divorce tells me "I'll never get married again, every five years I'll just find a woman who hates me and buy her a house."
Where are you with Jesus today? Right now? Are you still in love and excited, or has life interfered with your relationship with Him? Are you reduced to weekly church attendance, or are you still in the word? Or do you look for excuses not to spend time with God? Jesus tells us that when we avoid Him, or put anything ahead of Him, we have lost our first love. Do you look at Him like you do your latest ride? Do you anticipate reading your Bible and fellowshipping like you do your new bike? Do you look at Jesus the same way you look at new motorcycles?
Have you lost your first love, or just misplaced Him? Truth is, the world will invade, but the choice is always ours. God will not force His way into our lives, and it is us who turns on Him-never the other way around. And when the dust settles, or the ride is over, He is still there, patiently waiting-lovingly, for us to return to Him. For His list is very simple and short-He loves us, and doesn't want to share us with anybody, or anything. Remember to include Him in your latest Wish List if He isn't on top of it already.
God wants us as we are. Would you buy a used bike that? That is love, and trust. So run to Him. His latest model may be almost 2000 years old, but how do improve on perfection? New models, New Age, or a new gospel? Don't buy into it. Stick with the what you have-Jesus.
Has it been awhile? Pick up the word and let the scripture touch your heart once again. Tune up your life and go to church. Today is the most exciting time to be a Christian with the rapture imminent. Make today the best day of your life, and then repeat it tomorrow.
And for you other high mileage guys, treasure the memories and testimonies you have over the years. The encouragement means a lot to me, and to others. For Jesus promises your cup, or bucket will overflow with blessings when you follow Him. And in terms of roads left to ride, you better start today. I look forward to heaven, and being with Jesus, but am content to enjoy the blessings of today. On last year's bike. And last year's wife. And my forever Lord and Savior.
Cheaper than a new house every five years.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogpsot.com