I heard once that Mother Nature was a mad scientist. And based on the weather, she might be if she existed. Another good reason to realize she doesn't exist, and that God is in control. As I sit here in So Cal on a December morning, it is 40 degrees outside, the same as in New York City. It is 20 in Big Bear, brrr Bob and Suzie. And it is -14 where we used to live in Colorado, Vallecito Lake. And lastly 17 where Father Al is in Shanksville. Cold to all of us. Not in degrees, but in comparative temps. Only 55 degrees warmer here than Colorado. Break out the shorts! Or is it 55 degrees colder there than here?
Living at Vallecito Lake, we saw as low as -42, I consider that cold. But also saw some days where it got up to -10, and it felt warm. The coldest I rode in was -10, and not very far. But often. But still the dry roads called at that temp. And anything but ice and snow was a good day to ride. And I laugh inside when I compare that to those who say I won't ride unless it is over 60, then show up in chaps and leathers. My friend Hiram once rode from San Diego to Farmington, NM in 19 degree weather, cold but helped by his electric clothes. And John and Kerry rode out from Arkansas in December, and rode one day where it never got over 14. So it can be done. And as we gripe today here because it will only be in the 60's, many of my friends back in Pennsylvania have put there bikes into storage for the winter. And are already counting the days until spring, or the first thaw to get them out. Nine months a year is their riding season, with cold on either end-insurance companies even sell nine month policies, and I remember bike shops including free winter storage in deals if bought during the winter season. Concessions sometimes more to snow and freezing rain than temperature.
I have also had my Arai helmet come apart in 124 degree temp, they claim it was tested to 122. I have ridden for days when it didn't fall below 100, just as I have when it didn't get above 30, but I still rode. Maybe it is true what Mark Twain said, "everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it." My small part in the battle is dressing for it. But yet I see kids in shorts and winter coats on their way to school. Men wearing leather jackets to be fashionable in 90 degree heat. A concession to style, that we take advantage of, not fully realizing how blessed we are. Personally-I own four leather jackets, and I am not known for being stylish-and I know it. But it is the ability to dress for conditions, and not let the condition dictate to us that I find fascinating. A sense of style-or trendiness, looking cool as opposed to being comfortable-the question always being, how good do I look, and is anyone looking? Note-warm is better than cold, and comfortable is cool.
And so years ago I learned to dress in layers. T shirt, sweat shirt, and then jacket. Put on or take off as needed. And stay comfortable. For those cold 30 nights in Ft. Lauderdale, after being at the beach in the 80's that day. Or riding home at 10pm to Vallecito, when the thermometer is stuck below zero, and falling. But still riding. Not letting the elements beat me, but adapting to them. Which makes me think of the following.
Before the fall Adam and Eve never wore clothes. And God talks of walking with them in the cool of the day. So they obviously saw some temperature changes. And I wondered, before clothes, did they get cold? Did they have covers to pull up over them at night? And if so, what were they? And when Eve got cold, did she grab all the covers from Adam? We may never know the answer-it probably doesn't matter, but in a perfect situation like Eden, they probably didn't need them. God provided all they needed, even clothing after they sinned. Which brings us to now. God still provides what we need, when we need it. Hiram's electric suit for instance. My rain suit in flooding this last summer. Sweaters and gloves for when it is cool. And we take this for granted-maybe because we are so spoiled. I have nothing to wear that will match my blue bike. Pooh! But tonight when the weather gets cold, remember those under bridges and in the park. Where function before style counts. Where being cold is only alleviated by the cardboard wrapped around them. And when you can, do something about it. Donate socks and blankets to the Great Cover-up. Take jackets and sweaters-used ones are ok, and donate them. Just look around-and ask yourself, would you rather be warm or stylish? And be thankful you have a choice to be both. A friend just out of jail needed a winter coat, and God allowed me to give him one of my leathers-a perfect fit for him, and bless both of us. Maybe thinning out your closet and clothing others may be the next ministry move you make. Look around at church, there are ones right next to you hurting, maybe too proud or hurt to ask. Jesus said if they take your shirt, offer your coat, too. Maybe a different interpretation on the scripture and giving, but one I could see Him doing.
God's grace comes in many forms-dressing for the weather is one of them. So bundle up for your next ride, and be thankful you still ride. And remember a lesson I was reminded of two weeks ago. In the pouring down rain at our CMA meeting, none of us rode. But when leaving, a HOG group came in, off their bikes, rain suits and all-not one mention or complaint about the weather. And made me feel like a poser. Wet or dry-God still loves you, and rides with you. So take along an extra rain suit for Him-or better yet for someone who lives under the bridge. You just may make their garden an Eden for the day. And show them the same mercy that Jesus shows you in your prosperity. Just another chance to love, and show how well the gospel works when put into action.
And how do I know it's cold? Got my gauntlets-unlined-out to wear. Must be winter. To all my friends in colder climates, this ride is for you. Thanks Lord, in my abundance don't let me forget others, or you! Ride warm and safe, and to you HOG guys-dry.
And about Adam and Eve, I have it on good authority they didn't wear rain suits. But their friend Noah...
love with compassion,
Mike
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