This oughta cheer you up-we are more alike than we like to admit. There...now that you are basking in that truth, one of the ways we are alike, is our self inflicted wounds. Wounds that we don't have to go out of the body for-literally. But that can drive us out of our minds. Wounds that we see coming, know what to do, but choose the wrong way instead, and endure the wound, a literal shooting of ourselves in the foot. Been there, done that. Wish I had paid better attention.
My latest escapade was on New Years Eve afternoon. Dan was putting a rear tire on the
Street Triple, aka S3, and told me I needed a new chain. Not a surprise, at 20k it was worn, and the last time it was adjusted was when the old rear tire was installed, over 15,000 miles ago. I think I did pretty good. He also mentioned the sprockets were worn, but not enough to change, just a chain at this time. So off I went, the chain still loose, but only in spots, and started to check out chains on the internet. Simple, huh?
Well, what size chain does an S3 have? Not listed in the owners manual. No S3 forum told of the size, and even chain manufacturers' web sites from DID to Tsubaki didn't mention it. In fact, some only sold it with sprockets, and they weren't cheap! So after wasting too much time on something I didn't need right now, and wouldn't be getting for a couple months, I was hooked on finding out what size chain it had. And then, who would sell it the cheapest. Just when frustration was about to turn maniacal, I decided to wait. What did it matter today anyway? But what was that size?
So Tuesday I was exiled from the house while my ceilings were being painted from the fire. And stopping at the Triumph shop, figured Grinny would know. We have been friends for over 24 years, and he is a Yamaha legend, and with Triumph for 10 years should know. His books didn't say either, but had the price of chain only at a lot more than I was willing to spend. He even got out and under an S3 and looked on the chain-the size used to be imprinted on the link. Nothing. So...it being Tuesday, and fed up with something this simple, I called Mickey. Which I should have done in the first place. "525," he said. "Comes in a kit, that is cheap." And again reminded me why people from all over the US with Triumph problems call him. And also reminded me of why to replace the sprockets too. Where I was trying to cheap out, he wanted to do it right. And for about only $30 more than just the chain. So next time I do a bike swap, the S3 gets a new chain and sprockets. By the guy who has been the only one since 1996 to work on my bikes. I trust no one else. So why, did I go off on this three day tear into frustration? Once again stupid hurts.
One of the saddest things I hear in hospitals is "the doctors have done all they can, I guess we have to pray now." Pray now? Why aren't you praying first? How do you know what to do unless you ask? Then obey! How many lives are lost or healings delayed because we try to lean on our own understanding? Just the opposite that God tells us to do. He says trust! He knows what to do, all we need to do is listen and obey.
And it always works, when you are in the spirit. Don't use man's solutions for a spiritual issue-they will not work! But God, can use the things of man, to solve a problem. But you must first ask. Ever want to read the Bible but don't get it? Have you prayed first, asking the spirit to guide you? Remember the spirit is our helper, who guides us in all things. He is the one who lovingly pointed us to Jesus for salvation, and comforts us when we go astray. Who shows us what scriptures to read, and explains them to us like no one else can. Could this be why we should pray first?
Are you seeking God first, or the internet? Are you asking opinions until you find one that agrees with your opinion? Are you following His direction, knowing what He tells is the right advice? Are facts more important than opinions? You have trusted Him with salvation, don't you think He can deal with your other problems as well?
Then all these things will be added unto you. Wisdom not found on any web site, parts catalog, seasoned parts man, or on the side of the chain. Go to God first! A lesson well remembered! For that person riding past you when you are still fretting about your bike, could be you if you only trust God.
Man self inflicts pain, Jesus shows mercy and grace. Your choice. I rather be riding. And enjoying the blessings of God. A lesson to remember the next time a situation develops.
Hey, while you're here, does anyone know which tire is better, the Q2 or the Pirelli? I'm gonna need tires in a few months...sorry, old habits die hard. Seek God first, and all will be added unto you. Pray in the spirit, ask the spirit to guide, then obey the spirit. If you don't know, ask the one who knows!
And to those of you with shaft or belt drive, thank you for your patience. If it has wheels someday it'll get ya. Just remember, the rules are still the same no matter what you ride-it's all about Jesus!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com