Certain stretches of road seem to go on forever. Take I-40 east of Albuquerque for example. After going through the canyon-we used to take old 66 and Dead Man's Curve, you head towards Tucumcari, and then Amarillo-about 290 miles of how fast can we get there, but it never seems fast enough. Today we travel it safely at 85mph, but I can remember my first time on it, from east to west at 55mph. A ride that now takes 4-5 depending on potty stops, used to take 7-8 hours, caution being used to look out for radar traps. And on old 66 there were many of them. But today we think nothing of 85 mph, and safety on a four laner, with controlled access. But a much different story is told once you get off the freeway, and travel the old roads. And a time capsule awaits you when you do. Which when you aren't rushed for time, is a pleasant trip to the past. Which today will be someday.
When we first started traveling by motorcycle, my wife preferred to only eat at chain type restaurants, and chain motels. I used to tell her she was homogenized-afraid to step out and try something different. And reluctantly she did, and then the roads, and roadsides became more attractive.
We have eaten some of our best meals at places with gravel driveways, and sputtering neon signs. The outside may look a bit rough, but the cook and the waitress only add more flavor to the meal-and the food too. Where once we would have settled for a fast food chain, we now enjoy eating a real hamburger, a real milk shake with milk in it, and fresh cut fries. Even the pies and other desserts take on a fresher, more personal flavor. Mom's isn't the brand at these stops, but the person who baked it. Cooks with stained old aprons, piles of potatoes stacked on the flat top, and the smell of hot coffee. Add a waitress who calls you Sweetie, and you have the makings of a great meal. And we have learned to try the daily special-which usually is.
Corydon, Indiana was once the state capitol. A neat old down town, we were riding the Ohio River route, and stopped there for lunch. Walking around the block, they did have a few trendy places, which could be anywhere. But on the corner, was Joy's Lunch. And a joy it was. This being a Tuesday, the cook had made tenderloin on Sunday, and today's special was barbequed tenderloin sandwich, fresh corn on the cob, home made Cole slaw, a slice of pie, and a drink-FIVE DOLLARS! A three course meal for less than a #1 at McDonalds. And in 2009 dollars, this was the deal of the trip. Add into it the fact the food was excellent, service great, and we got to mingle and visit with other diners, we found out that the owners were bikers, and served up great meals to riding groups coming through. Sometimes at no profit, sometimes free, as they wanted to help them on their journey. And while talking with two hay covered men, the dad asked me to please stop by his farm, and tell his wife it was OK to buy a motorcycle. We agreed, but only waved while passing. I don't do domestic issues. But for ten dollars, we had eaten, were filled, had made new friends, and were encouraged along the trip, also being told about speed traps and great detours to take. Try that one at Mickey D's next time. You see, there is not only life on the road, but along side of it too. You just need to look. And not be so homogenized.
God likes to stretch us in our road of being a Christian. He likes to take us new places, and show us new things to bless us. But we say NO, I like the road I'm on. Except you cannot see the rut you are really in. The same church service, same meal after, then going home to the same TV and watching the same shows. Sometimes really live it up by stopping for an ice cream. Vanilla. But all in all, a predictability that borders on a slow death. And death arrives, but you are too bored to notice.
God promises us abundant life. Not to be confused with riches, but fulfilling desires He has put into you. And then He fulfills them, when you follow Him. He wants to be the personal God, not a chain or fast food God. To make every meal, and every mile special-although I'm still waiting for the I-40 refresher-maybe if I change my attitude? Anyway, He adds life to living, and allows you to be touched by others, but also to touch them. I cannot tell you how many pictures I have had taken with BBQ pit crews, cooks, waitresses, or other diners we have met. Friends I hadn't known before we stopped, but friends now that we know about. Friends who shared stories over tenderloin, and let us into their world, if only for a few minutes. People who have made the trip special, just by being there.
This road I talk about is not found on any map. It is a road of the heart, and can only be travelled that way. It takes trust, and a step of faith. And only Jesus can provide the way. Do you and yourself a favor today. Try the old roads, stop at a non-franchised ice cream stand. Eat a real lunch, and sit at the counter. Listen and learn, and then repeat the experience for others. You may find that your new friends are more like you than you think. But don't let that scare you. Take advantage of a fulfilled life in Christ that He promises. And take pictures to encourage others. But never lose the file of film in your memory. Smells, tastes, food, and meeting new people. On the road again? Or still? Depends on your perspective, and your trusting of God.
Travelling with Jesus. New roads and new friends. Blessings not found on the freeway, but only on the road with Him. I wander, while others wonder. You'll never know until you go.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com