Driving down the coast on a sunny, summer day, the sun shining off the
ocean reflects a one of a kind blue, one that must be seen. Now take Lake Tahoe
for instance, and you have even a deeper blue, one that seems too blue to be
true, and suddenly the Pacific has a greenish tone to it. But if you have never
been to Crater Lake, then you have missed out on an even deeper blue, if
possible. A blue so pure it screams of a basic primary color with nothing added
to enhance, because it doesn’t need it, it is the color blue in all its
blueness. But to these various shades of blue may take some planning. any ride
down I-5 past Camp Pendleton is easy except for traffic compared to Lake Tahoe,
especially the California side. We spent week there on afternoon in traffic,
two lanes are great, but not when filled with four lanes of traffic. But
getting to Crater Lake is simple compared to both. Coming from the north, the
road is straight, no matter which way you came to get there. Then this 20+ mile
stretch of road, is so straight it may have been lifted from South Dakota, not
one bend as it gains altitude, finally entering the National Park. A road that
due to snow has been closed into June, which I can attest to, denying the signs
and riding over 40 miles round trip only to find the signs were right this
time. Coming from the south is a great ride, curves, altitude changes, and
again little traffic, until you read this and tell everyone. Which then tees
off and you can go into Ashland, another ride following the river, or into
Klamath Falls, and tow big lakes. Big towns for the area, but small compared to
any metro area, this is beauty at its best. So enjoy the ride, it is only part
of the destination...
Back in the 1930’s, when in the throes of our Greatest Depression, our
federal government did many public construction projects, beautifying America
and its National Parks, but also putting men to work. And at the top of Crater
Lake, like in many other Parks, a lodge was built, using resources from the
area, creating lodges of our grandparents memories, and still here today.
Except now they have taken on a luxury historical status, where only the
wealthier, or those with a higher credit card limit can enjoy them, if they book
ahead, sometimes up to a year. And so it was when Theresa and I rode up to the
Lodge at Crater Lake, on a sunny summer day, on our way back from Frank’s house
outside Portland. Finally escaping the gloom, they have sun days
there-depressing, when in So Cal we get bummed about a few hours of June Gloom.
And pulling into the parking lot, we had just gotten off the Tiger, when a
mother in a small SUV pulled up next to us. Either the ride or the kids had
gotten to her, she was definitely under the influence of one or both, and took
one look at us, and wishingly asked “wanna trade?” Sometimes compliments come
in the form of a question. And having been in her position, rather be in mine.
Where she had AC, music, road games, and the boys, we had fresh air, the aroma,
unobstructed views, and the ride-all on two wheels! Nothing of any value could
make us trade, my silent smile said what many words could not, and spared her
any more agony. Such is travelling by bike, for one thing if not on a bike, the
conversation never would have occurred, how many times have we heard “you drove
all the way here on that?” another compliment in the form of a question, and the
testimonies begin. Now I am not opposed to travel by car, beats no travel, but
the the freedom on a motorcycle is beyond compare. If you have done it you
know, if not, what are you waiting for? Another compliment in the form of a
question. And the ride continues...It is summer and many are hitting the road,
we will for a shorter time this summer, and can’t wait to go. We are truly
blessed by God to be able to and wish to publicly thank Him now. We will again
on the Tiger, and back to riding roads away from the city, and back to the
country where it all began, In the beginning...and yes we will see families who
look forward to the day of travel without a car load, but I hope they enjoy the
time now, for it is precious. But so is our ride.
And after worrying about motels, gas, food, and other essentials
we will set out, trusting God as always, and we find when He gets the glory, we
get the blessings. And on the day we finally leave, we will leave al troubles
behind, until we get back. They aren’t welcome with us, but have no problem
staying home. And we find any worrying done in pre-trip preparation is now
behind us, and we ponder the words of Jesus, “how many by worrying have added
any time to your life?” He makes a good point, so get out from under worry, and
into His blessings. Leave worry behind. Enjoy the day that God has given you,
and if a rough road is ahead, He will prepare you. If with kids, treasure the
times, and some day they will too, it is their vacation also. Maybe they don’t
want you along, maybe they rather be out riding! And if on two wheels, enjoy
the blessings of riding on the beautiful roads of America, knowing those who
stare as you go by, wish they were you. And if you know Jesus, go in the
comfort He is always with you, and enjoy the ride, worry free, even more.
Remember another question of Jesus, “what do you want me to do for you"?” and if
saved praise Him, if not ask Him not your life, and on your trip. He
understands the road, He lived on it, who better to travel with than the perfect
Guide? Don’t wait and look back, when He asks “what have you been doing all day
waiting?” Can’t wait to hear that excuse, while you mumble. Why not spend the
evening planning tomorrow, and going over today’s blessings. And here is a free
note-it works at home too, no matter where you live. Now,what do you want Jesus
to do for you? Did you know if you ask according to His will, it will be done,
if He says no it is only because a better yes is coming. You may avoid a
traffic jam, or see a bear, or get invited to go where you didn’t know was
possible.
What color is blue? It depends on where you are, and where you
are going. Blue should reflect the color of the sky on the water, not your
attitude. Add some life to your life today. Don’t be like the lady wishing to
trade? I wonder what she would have said if I said “yes”? I wonder what
Theresa would have said? You will only know the blessing if you ask, and let
the Lord answer. With all my ups and downs, if asked wanna trade, the answer is
obvious. I don’t and won’t, but I will share Jesus. That plank in your eye may
just be a windshield you are hiding behind-get out and enjoy Jesus today. You
can be blue or see blue-have a great summer!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com