It's that time of year again, that in between our few and far between rain storms we begin our trip planning. We love to tour on our motorcycles, but have an aversion to being tourists. So before we make plans, we study maps-one large print atlas on each floor of our house, plus one in the garage for emergencies-read biker and travel magazines, watch the travel channels, and reread local biker publications from previous years trips. And of course pray, as without God's leading, a vacation can just be another trip-and we want to be blessed!
And a key to vacations is vacating. The house can always go another year without paint, and the honey-do list is always there, get out and enjoy this beautiful land that God has given us. Daily routines can be so-routine. Break the habit, and trust God. And be blessed!
And since I don't like being a tourist, I read up on the areas we travel in. Impress your hosts, as you pronounce local roads and restaurants properly. Florida the state is pronounced different from Flor-ee-da Road in Durango. I have also found that certain trip advising web sites can be helpful, once you learn to figure them out. If a place is consistently rated poor, I stay away. But a clinker here and there, just shows the person had a rare bad time, and is taking it out on the business. You learn biker friendly can man bigger portions, and a place to park your bike. It can also mean higher prices, and a place the locals avoid-look for local plates in the parking lot before having a local food plate in front of you. Chain motels may have bargains, and join the club to accumulate points for free nights, but don't miss out on great mom and pop motels, character at a discount. Remember that historical hotels are great, but that the rooms are smaller, and amenities may be at a premium. Remember-it's historical, not necessarily luxurious. And you may have to walk upstairs instead of taking an elevator.
Don't ask the clerk where good food is. Don't. Ask them if you had to go out for the best meal in town, where would they go? The answer will vary, usually not the attached restaurant. An exception was the Comfort Suites in Green Bay with a great Italian restaurant in house. And in diners, we like to sit at the counter, and visit with the waitresses. Learn about the area, and take advantage of their knowledge. Also I avoid any chain diners. Dog food compared to real home cooked meals-especially breakfast. At the only diner in Iola, Wisconsin, I sat next to a farmer who had three platters in front of him. I didn't realize I had ordered what he had, basic eggs and pancakes, but real size portions, for real hard working men, and bikers. The locals were eyeing me carefully as I attempted to finish the food, and when I did got many smiles and a thumbs up from the farmer next to me, who hung around to see if this biker boy could finish a real meal. They didn't know I skipped lunch and dinner that day. And I always leave a generous tip, in case I go back I like to be remembered for my generosity rather than my eating capacity.
And as Christians, we are to remember we are just passing through-sojourners, just a tourist on earth. And some treat it like we are, but some don't get it. They don't spend time in the word, learning and developing a relationship with God, who is not only the perfect tour guide on earth, but prepares us for heaven, too. Remember He is infinite, but also infinitely local. We can avoid so many local problems if we know how to handle situations, and Jesus walks us through them. Maintenance in a relationship with God is better than having to ask forgiveness later. And when hanging with other Christians-locals, get to trade testimonies, and minister to each other. Think of it as a lifelong vacation, travelling with God, and watch as horizons get closer, dreams get bigger, and you grow with the God who created the universe. The best travel partner, and also the roads you are on take on a special meaning with Him.
Planning your trip can make or break a good time, but God will always be there for times when you don't. AAA can get you maps, but only God can give direction. Follow Him on your trip today, and as you anxiously anticipate tomorrow, remember He knows the road ahead today, too. And what may appear to be a detour, just may be the best ride of your life. Sit at the counter with God, and visit. Talk with Him as you ride, best place with no interruptions. Sleep in places where you can hear the trains, and also the frogs and crickets. Take roads you never took before-for that is the only way to go where you have never been before.
The blessings aren't always at the end of the road-the best ones are on it. Travel long and safely, in Jesus. We are strangers only once, after that friends.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com
