motorcycle therapy-the only way to fly

It was just about a year ago that I started to experience horrible pain in my upper back. It became the worst after riding a new 2012 Daytona R 675 all of 82 miles, and just the thought of getting on it again was too much to think. Having ridden on café style bikes for almost 40 years, I was very comfortable with the riding position, and just a year earlier had put over 1000 miles on a Daytona in just over a day. But the pain was excruciating, and so I called Mick and ended up taking the bike back in the truck. Not at all my plan, and not at all me. But the pain was to worsen, and after being misdiagnosed as having a pinched nerve, I finally ended up being life flighted six months later and having open heart surgery. The pain was from a combination of problems, among them a staph infection filling my pericardial sac, and an aneurism on my aorta, that finally caused my aorta to explode. AAA in doctor talk, no one survives it, but I did. I am a miracle. And early on after my surgery, never thought I would or could ride again.

But my healing became even more miraculous, and at seven weeks after surgery, I began riding again on my Bonneville. No endurance at first, and a 30 mile ride would wear me out. But as I improved, I finally rode all my own bikes, and by November, at five months after surgery, was again riding my first 2013 press bikes, first an Explorer, then a Street Triple. My confidence was rising, as was my endurance, and the miracle healing was to continue. And then in January, I was to ride my first 3000 mile month-I was better, but not quite there yet. Whereas 500 mile days used to be the beginning, 300 put me to bed early. But with new bikes to ride, I found the enthusiasm and the strength to ride six new bikes in the first two months this year, with an America, a cruiser style bike my ride until yesterday. Not my style, and after a 700 mile week, I was heading out and then the winds hit. Combine that with how uncomfortable it is, with no power, and add wind, I decided to take it back early-usually 1000-1500 miles is my goal. And I was looking forward to riding my old GS1000, which has been sitting at Mick’s since before Thanksgiving. So as I rolled in, I was glad to see Ray, who I hadn’t seen before my surgery, and hadn’t heard about it. We visited, caught up on each other, while Mickey dynoed a bike for David Searle, editor of Motorcycle Consumer News. We all got to talking, and Mick introduced us all, giving us all a hard time, as we are so old. Ray is almost 70, we should all look so good, and still very fast. Still looking for more power for his 167hp on the dyno B King. Mick is the kid at less than 50. Almost as fast. But as the three of us talked, Mick rolled out a 2013 Daytona R 675. This is all I have, if you want it. Do I want it? After his intro of me of how I rode more miles than anyone else, and would ride anything, I decided I had to. At least let me try. And it was with a bit of excitement, tinged with apprehension that I sat on it. What a bike! I had gone from a horrible ride to the best of the best! But how would I do? Could I handle the extreme riding position? An hour and 82 miles later I called him to ask how to adjust the shift light. A full on race bike for the street. I was back!

I started by praying a version of Ephesians 2, thanking God for the good works He has for us, I took off. Immediately both hips started to hurt, but that I would overcome in a few miles. Call them birth pangs, are rebirth pangs. I had gone from riding in a birthing position with feet forward to a fetal position, tucked in. And I was riding, and it felt good. And I had no pain! I was back, and had come full circle. The Daytona was just the thing I needed, and God had it ready for me to ride that day. Unplanned by me, but He knew just what I needed, I didn’t realize how much it meant to go back to where I had left off. I was healed! Amazing! And after putting only 100 miles on it riding home and church, I can’t wait until today. Just as God gave His very best in Jesus, He provided Triumph’s very best in the R model. Something I never would have wanted to attempt again, the memory of pain was that intense. But God has given me a passion to ride, and fulfills it in ways no one else ever could. We are more than overcomers. And today I shall again resume my rehab, on the Daytona. He keeps me in the loop with great bikes to ride, and I continue to marvel at Him and His love for me.

Being in the loop is a way of saying we are kept abreast of things. Knowing what is going on, and being kept up to date. It is almost essential in today’s business world, or even in social texting circles. But God keeps us in the loop via His spirit, and He calls it grace. His part is providing it, ours is accepting it. I ask people how many sides does a circle have? The answer being an obvious two-an inside and an outside, and it is better to be within God’s circle, in the loop. To be in His grace, as His plans for us are always better. But we have to trust and obey to see grace, and that is not always easy. It takes a step of faith, or in my case yesterday, a ride of faith. And while singing praises to God all the way home, I still marvel at His plans for me. And I can never be thankful enough for Jesus in my life. Whether working, playing, riding, or sleeping, He never leaves us, nor forsakes us for others or other things. And provides things in our life for our enjoyment, to show how much He loves us. But He is not only a benevolent Father, but the ultimate healer, as He healed me, and now has brought me full circle, back to my pre-heart surgery riding level. Almost, I need more seat time. Which is sitting in my garage waiting for me. Truth is, I am in fact better than ever, as now I have an even better appreciation of Him. Times of trials will do that to you. Where you turn in that trial determines how you are blessed. Are you building a testimony or offering excuses? And quite frankly, I don’t want to miss any blessings or testimonies, for you either.

To some it is just a dream ride, to me a reality. To the jealous a spoiled child, to God a blessed and loved one. To some an act of faith believing, to others a stumbling block. How you see Jesus is up to you. If in doubt, try trusting Him today. He will not let you down. But do it His way! Life ain’t Burger King. Long after He gives you the desire of your heart, He will continue to be the desire of your heart. From intense pain to intense joy, that is the ride many of us enjoy with Jesus. Stay in the loop with Jesus, pray daily, and think of Him during the day. Sing to Him in praise and worship, and if inside a full face Arai, well the joy is that much better. And although the circle may have two sides, the best side is still the inside. In the loop with Jesus. Banked curves when you need speed, and an infield to pit and rest. Let Him complete your ride today. Spend some time in therapy with Him today. Getting better never felt so good.

love with compassion,

Mike

mathew25biker.blogspot.com

"I'll slow down so I can keep up with you"

 I love Harley jokes. I also love Triumph, British, and Japanese bikes jokes. Add BMW, and I am an equal opportunity joke lover. I cannot tell you how many jokes I have heard about Joseph Lucas, the Prince of Darkness, of leaky Triumphs, and of BSA’s. And I laugh with them. But this last week things happened to me, we’ll file them under funny, because they are. But they also reminded me of some who are so prideful that they cannot laugh at themselves...so to quote an old National Lampoon Radio Dinner line, “you are a fluke of the universe, whether you can hear it or not, the universe is laughing behind your back..” Now I don’t enjoy group rides, I call them crowd rides, for mixed in among those that can, are those that can’t ride, and you only ride as fast as the slowest rider, or as good as the worst. Agreed? So this last weekend, we hooked up with our friends in Black Sheep, HDFC, and rode to breakfast with them. For Harley riders, these guys ride a faster than usual pace, and I was amazed when we were able to catch up to them. When we came up on them, Ned had been thinking of us, and was glad to see us, and us of them. But we slowed to 60-65mph in a 70mph zone, breaking rule #1 of riding, never let any semi trucks pass. With rule #1a being don’t let one of your own be the cause of a traffic jam. But we all made it on time, and I joked with Ned later, “I slowed down so I could keep up with you.” And we both laughed, as he is definitely not a Harley snob. They gave me a hard time apologizing, saying next time they will ride faster, so I can get out of second gear. Good friends, good humor, and we love it.

Now when a Harley guy tells a Harley joke, I guess it is OK, but when I tell them...look out. Wayne who rides an Ultra Glide, once told me that 95% of all Harleys sold in the last 10 years are still on the road. The other 5% made it home. Substitute Triumph, etc, and it is still funny. But my latest one is “Harley Davidson-The most efficient way to turn gasoline into noise, without the side effect of horsepower.” Maybe my new favorite, right after an early gem from Gordon Jennings, “there is something inherently wrong with an engine that makes maximum power at idle.” Loosen up and laugh, take a chance of getting bugs in your teeth...

Coming out after too much Mexican food one night, I encountered a 400 pound biker, named Tiny. How many of them do you know? Anyway, he started in on the Triumph jokes, and with more booze than brains fueling his jokes, I got tired quickly. But I was his audience of choice, so I decided it was time to join in, with a Triumph joke. “Why doesn’t Triumph make vacuums anymore.” I asked. “Because it was the only product they made that didn’t suck,” and he broke into laughter, gave me a hug, told me I was cool, and how he once had a Bonne. Must have been before he weighed more than the bike. And he went off telling anyone else who would listen to his new joke. And I was his new friend.

But I have a friend, who once verbally accosted me for making Harley jokes, he rides one. I was told I was jealous, and couldn’t afford one. His must have been one of the ones who made it home. I was told how prejudiced I was against Harley, and would never be able to ride one. “If he had to explain, I wouldn’t understand.” But he did. But I did understand one thing he didn’t, and may refuse to. We are all brothers, riding is what is our common denominator. So when I take the newest press ride to see Spud at Biggs HD, he looks at it, and explains how we have the same common disease, motorcycles. And how I have an open invite to ride any bike on the floor whenever I want...how many of the elite have that invite? And I am known as the Triumph guy! Back to Ned, it was him and Ken who drove to Durango to get my Tiger this summer after my open heart surgery. Both active in Black Sheep, and Harley riders, I am forever thankful, and when I thanked Ned, I asked “weren’t you embarrassed by trailering my Triumph?” he explained they wore masks. So if you saw a blue Tiger being towed by two big guys with masks last summer, now it all makes sense. We ride!

We are in the midst of a great revival in the church today, one that will usher in the return of Jesus. Church attendance in many places is growing, and many are being saved. But bringing new ones into the church is exciting, but growth only occurs, numbers wise, when other churches aren’t raided. Don’t take from one, to feed another. Cannibalism of other churches is no way to grow. Or is just inviting people to church. Jesus taught in the temple, but ministered on the streets. He went to the people, out among the lost. Nowhere is it found that He invited anyone to church. Yet so much evangelism is based on inviting people to church. Get them in, it is the Pastor’s job. Maybe that is why some churches are in decline, and some even closing their doors. Evangelism, like witnessing, is part of our life. It is Jesus in us, not put on for an evangelical event, street witnessing, or even church. It is who we are, just as we are what we ride. We all ride, the common denominator, just as Jesus is what makes us a Christian. Sitting in church won’t make you a pew either. And if it takes riding slower to fellowship, I will. Just as I am delighted my Harley friends reached out to this Triumph rider. How my close friend, Fr. Al, a Catholic Bishop just died, big on uniting the different denominations. Just like my two Lutheran pastor friends, Jim and Phil embrace bikers and welcome them into their church-on their rides! Opening the doors to all says more than any message about love! So to my friend, who I know loves me, just not my jokes, I forgive him. And wish him well, reminding him that you are what you ride, in my case a Triumph! And that I will ride with him anytime, if I can keep up.

Maybe if we all concentrate on Jesus, and a little less on our differences, we may see the family grow even faster. Both of God and of those who ride. Heaven will not be brand or denomination specific. Why not get a practice run in for our eternal ride, and love someone today. Laugh at a joke with others, get to know them, and find a great chance to show them Jesus, where no preaching would. Invite them on a ride, listen to them, they just might have questions you have the answers for. And show them love, which is what we are supposed to do anyway?

By the way, did you know that BMW stands for Broke My Wallet? Or Bring Money with You? I’ve had five and speak from experience. Let your experiences be of Jesus. He took the time to slow down for you, because He knew you could never keep up, or do it on your own. And no matter how much chrome you have, it won’t make you a better rider. Better a God of Light than the Prince of Darkness. And the scriptures also talk about being in one Accord? Any upset Honda fans? And as all old Triumph owners know, we don’t change the oil, we just top it off.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

*as equipped

Honda appears to be onto something here. Bringing back an affordable and basic motorcycle, yet a motorcycle that someone would still wish to ride. Or to be seen on. Back to the basics, seats, tires, motors, and brakes. Low entry price, easy to maintain,and cheap to operate. Sign me up! And even the reviews were praiseworthy, the bike got great mileage, was fun to ride, but when I got to the pricing I was disappointed. What had started out as a $6999 cycle, was now over $11,000! Add tax and license, fees, and set-up and freight, and you have a motorcycle that is almost twice as much as advertised. Then it appeared, *AS EQUIPPED! And after seeing the one loaded with accessories, the one actually ridden in the test, that is the one people will want, and go into the dealer looking for. For $6999. Check your wallet at the door, financing available. Don’t check your brain.

A few years back I bought the 2008 Street Triple I own. New ones were hard to find, Triumph’s best seller, and I found a used one, owned by the most anal biker I ever met. Even the sprockets were shiny. He had an asking price that seemed high, but had added over $1500 of accessories, most I had no interest in. So we negotiated, and I got a fair deal, priced as though he had thrown in all the extras for nothing. And we both agreed on the deal, I paid a little more, he took a little less-such is negotiating. I bought it *AS EQUIPPED! I knew what I wanted, and what I was getting, he knew what he had and what he was selling. A fair deal, we both benefitted.

I am mystified by watching the dating ads on TV. Perception being the truth to many, I wonder how many are extremely accurate in their assessments of themselves. Take me for instance. Physically scars on both knees, abdomen, and chest. Open heart surgery, Dacron aorta. Next please, and I am sure I would be passed over. Good thing I am not in the market, *AS EQUIPPED, I appear to not be the great deal my wife knows I am. Yet thousands use it, and I am annoyed by one statement by a Christian based service, the woman stating “we never would have met if it wasn’t for this service.” And somewhere in heaven, God rolls His eyes. What had He done for over 6000 years when it came to romance? Was He asleep? If only He had invented computers earlier, we all might be better off. Did those of us who trusted Him take a chance, when a computer match-up was just waiting for us? And when the marriage fails, do they seek God, or just right click, and seek another perfect mate? One who might disclose all the faults and personality quirks, one that would reveal all, who would be delivered as advertised, * AS EQUIPPED. She even looked like the girl in the ad, just had some extra baggage, not included in the asking price. Another no cost benefit, of not trusting God. But she went to church, carried a Bible, even had Jesus sticker on her car, how could God be so wrong? Truth is He wasn’t, and isn’t-you didn’t trust Him. And since it takes two, were you equipped as advertised? I wonder what she would say?

The Jews were looking for a Savior. They needed freedom from an oppressive government, from slavery, from the laws, and legalism. The list goes on, they wanted to have all the promises of God, with one extra-revenge. So when Jesus came on the scene, He wasn’t quite what they were looking for. Consider His file. Born of an unknown father, raised by a step-father. From Nazareth, nothing good ever came from there. No formal education, part time teacher, full time rabble rouser. Odd jobs held until age 30, then went into ministry full time at no salary. Owned no property, used public transportation. Surrounded Himself with other undesirables, and led a spiritual revolution, still going on some 2000 years after His death. Tried and convicted, although proven innocent, was crucified, and buried in a borrowed tomb. Later found empty, body never found. Physically had nail holes in hands and feet, scars on head from thorns, a mutilated back from scourging, and a hole in the side of chest, where a spear had pierced it. Some facial disfigurement. No wonder so many reject Him today, based on those facts, how would He be a perfect match for anyone? *AS EQUIPPED, how could He claim to do the things He claimed to do? And how could He be who He said was? Yet, as much importance as we place on the physical, it is the spiritual we need, the soul that needs satisfying. Beauty starts on the inside, and cannot be masked by a pretty face, trendy clothes, a good resume, or a good road test review. And if bought on face value, for a price, no one could ever see the value there, only His Father could. So shouldn’t we try to see things via the Father? Meet the parent before we meet the Son? But Jesus tells us that we must know Him first. And those of us who see Him for who He is-the Son of God, and our Savior. And we get to see God, the Father.

Beware false claims from others who claim to have seen the Savior, or even to be him. That their’s is the way. They are lies, and contradict the gospel. Stay away from false claims of happiness, riches, and worldly goods. Keep your wallet in your pocket, Jesus never asked for money, in fact, when it was needed, He pulled a fish out of the water and took a coin from its mouth. He promises, love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, self control, meekness, and long suffering. He is all those things, and comes equipped to meet all your needs. Not in hollow promises, or cleverly worded sentences, but according to His riches and glory. Note-HIS, not yours, the church, your family’s, or your friends. From Him-although He may use the former to deliver them. He is who He says He is, with no *, or no *AS EQUIPPED promise. It takes faith to trust, to believe, and then to obey. That is what it takes, not a big FICA score. He doesn’t accept credit, no pay you later, give me the blessings today, He is for right now-so don’t delay. And then, all these things shall be added unto you...

No fees, set-up or delivery charge. No club to join, no forms to fill out. He asks for your heart. So spend time reading His resume, and ask yourself, isn’t He all I ever needed? And wanted? NO Jesus and do this to be saved, no religion, no false promises. He is the only way to God, and is God. No one will ever say they got to heaven without Him, but many will sadly know they went to hell without Him. Make your decision today. It’s your choice.

Jesus Christ-as advertised. As promised by God. No hype, no ends at midnight sales. Nothing extra thrown in, He is everything. And He comes with a lifetime guarantee. No one else can deliver what they promise except Him. Your perfect match. *AS EQUIPPED. Operators are standing by. Such a deal He has for you.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com 

today was tomorrow yesterday

I have never seen the movie, but have heard it alluded to a lot. The Bucket List. People seemed to be inspired by it. It seems now to be quite fashionable to make of list of things to do before you die. And from the titles in Barnes and Nobles, it seems to be catching on. 500 places to go before you die. 200 cheeseburgers to eat before you die. Left turns to make while you still can. And 365 motorcycles to ride before you die. All about us, or so it seems. And you are supposed to fill the bucket with requests, then pull them out until they are all done. Now I have dreams and desires like anyone else, but I find the difference is while some dream, or daydream, I look for ways to get ‘er done. Which is one of the three things that an employer looks for, getting things done. The other two, since you asked are saving the company money, or making it money. They have a list too. So while at Bible study last week, our great teacher, told of how he planned to write his testimony for his girls, so they would know what he was like before he got saved. Fair enough, they had been raised in a Christian home and never saw how he used to be before Christ entered into his life. His testimony was important to him, as he is concerned about the next generation, and many raised in church are unaware or blind to the real world. It is surely a blessing growing up in a Christian home, but doesn’t necessarily prepare you for the real world. You don’t need to get hit by a car to know it hurts, but knowing the after effects may change the way you drive. But my question was, why wait? Or why bother to write it down? How about an evening sharing testimonies, and letting the family know of the past, of where you came from, and any past indiscretions. Keep it Christ centered, without glorifying your past, and empty the bucket. One testimony at a time. Or as Jesus said, don’t cover your light...

A few summers back while visiting with my parents in Jersey, we sat down one evening and got the family histories, some good, some funny, some sad, and much revealing why we are like we are, and why my parents are like they are. And then spent the next afternoon looking at old slides of when I was younger, and growing up. A blessed time for all, as the memories my parents shared were precious. Stories with details, I listened to their testimonies of marriage, having kids, careers, and getting old. Laughing, tears, and lot of joy. I always wondered Uncle Such and Such was never mentioned, now I know. And I also learned of the many sacrifices they made as parents, doing without so their kids did, and saw love from a different perspective. One that made me appreciate them more. Wish I had sooner. And I have shared with my kids about my pre-Jesus days. You see your testimony begins the day you were born, even earlier to God, He knew you before the womb. And it continues on today. But many times we forget that, or neglect that, or wish to hide it. Don’t, but don’t make it the focal point of your testimony.

A simple lesson we learned year ago was the two minute testimony. Most kids kids have a two minute attention span, adults are worse. We don’t listen, but we sure like to talk. So listen first, then reply. More important, and you can pray while listening. Spend one minute sharing your past, all the bad. Then 30 seconds of how you were saved. Then 30 seconds of how Jesus has changed your life. And then answer all the questions they ask. Simple, don’t make it difficult. Sometimes you need to be reminded of where you are by looking back at how far you have come. Which is why I carry my Vacation 2012 pictures, my time in Cardiac Critical Care. I never tire of hearing how good I look, but one look at where I was is the biggest part of my testimony. And a chance to brag on God, which is really our testimony, and who it should be about.

Don’t put off today what you should have done yesterday. Today was tomorrow yesterday. Let your light shine, don’t keep it in a bucket, or under a bucket. Let it shine, a reflection of Jesus Christ and His love. So many roads, so little time. so ride often, and have fun. Enjoy life, for what good is fun if you don’t enjoy it? And with Jesus, you should! As much fun as it was looking at old photos, the real ones are still treasured within the heart. An endless supply of 35mm film. Just waiting for a chance to be shown. Too many make lists, while others are out doing. What is your testimony? I’d love to hear. Get ‘er done, Jesus did.

What movies inspire you? The Wild One, and Easy Rider did it for me. Big surprise, huh? Ride your own testimony, today.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com 

one man's solution to the energy crisis

It’s 1968, and my Dad is filling his VW Bug with Sunoco 190 at 23 cents/gallon. Across from him a blue Corvette is doing the same with Sunoco 260, racing gas at the pump for 32 cents/gallon. And my Dad wonders “how can he afford to spend so much for gas?” It’s 1971, and I got my license, and pull into the Shell station for gas. “Two dollars worth,” I tell the attendant, just like I heard my mother tell them for years. She never let her car go below a half tank, and two dollars always filled it up. It’s 1972, and Sunoco 260 is still 32 cents/gallon for our motorcycles only the best for our hi-performance machines. And then, there is a war in Israel. And because the US of A defends her ally, the Arab nations, aka OPEC raise gas prices to us, and limit the supply. Suddenly we are paying 45-50 cents/gallon, when you can find gas. It is being rationed, and gas shortages are the norm. Odd/even days based on your license plate, and attendants checking to see if you have below a half tank-if above, no gas for you. Big cars sales die, and the Japanese with their econo box cars that no one wanted before, suddenly are desirable. And where 20 mpg was once bragging rights, now they surpass it, albeit with a penalty of performance and comfort. But gas prices rule the day, and two dollars worth has become four dollars worth-twice the cash for the same amount. We may not understand politics, but we understand that. And as I sit today, gas is well over $4/gallon here, with no end in sight, although cars get mileage like my motorcycle used to, and fuel pumps shut off at $100 with your credit card. What would my Dad think, and the last time my mother got gas it was $20 instead of ten. A true energy crisis, no matter how you define it, today it costs more.

And with alternative fuels becoming popular, we now have Hybrids, gas/electric, just like golf carts. Diesels that still have to fuel like the big rigs, and the fuel smells, although the exhaust may not. Some trucks have switched to natural gas, clean burning, but stations few and far between. Propane is high octane, costs less, but is inconvenient. Like waiting inline for gas isn’t. Houses have switched form heating oil to solar, and wind power is available. Alternatives are becoming the norm, or at least would like to be, with cost being the driving factor, then availability. But nothing seems to beat the internal combustion engine, especially as it becomes more efficient, is cost effective, lasts a long time, is rebuildable and an infrastructure in place, anything else is still a project in process. And that may take care of our cars and motorcycles, what do we do for our personal lives? What do we do when we get tired, wasted, and out of fuel? What do we turn to? Years ago God came up with a plan, called SOULAR energy. Feeding our souls all we need, and desire, and taking care of us from the inside out. We still need to refuel from time to time, but with His infrastructure in place, open 24/7, and His always being available, we can refuel and refresh with Him at any time. His love provides energy for the soul, and drives our lives, rather than our lives driving us. No long lines, no out of premium, He is always there when needed, filling us to overflowing. But unlike the fuel running out over my bike’s tank, His just seems to keep me full, the gas needle never moving off empty. Yet many reject Jesus, the source of SOULAR power, trying to find what they need in drugs, jobs, careers, hobbies, racing, and even motorcycles. What has NASCAR even done for you? And they may get an occasional quick fix, and the needle may move off empty, but they are never full. And the range of travel is limited, and soon they are back in line again. Seeking something else because they are empty on the inside, maybe a newer model, or alternative source will provide the answer. And so they sacrifice their lives, incomes, families, and dreams looking for the perfect solution, when Jesus is there all the time. Remember the bell that used to ring when you drove in for gas, Jesus stands at the door knocking, He hears the bell, and answers, but you need to let Him in. “Fill ‘er up sir, with premium?” You see we were designed to run on SOULAR power, and nothing else will have us running as we should. NO matter the fuel booster, there is no substitute for Jesus. And our bodies know that, and so does our mind. Yet we resist Him, why? Would you pay premium prices for regular when racing fuel is available at no cost? Right in you r own neighborhood? Full service long before we had to endure filling ourselves, greeted with a smile and checking your oil, and washing the windshield. Unlike most of our lives, where we check the fuel and fill the oil, when following Him our lives are maintained as they should be. Yes, problems will cross our paths, but He is always there. Tires will get low, and bugs will get on our windshields. Same smile, same outstretched arms. SOULAR remains the answer, proven over 2000 years. Where is your Pinto or Chevette today? Do you even remember them are know what they are?

In a perfect world we would all ride motorcycles. Waving to each other, having fun, taking the long way home, and not texting. We would have room in the garage, more time to ride, and less money spent. Rain suits for rainy days, and leathers for when cold. But we could do it, but it would take a lifestyle change for many. It would mean that helmet head be the new badge of honor, the new trendy hairstyle, and you could do it yourself. Leaving more time to ride. All great reasons for motorcycles to be the perfect mode of transportation. But yet something would be missing, that only SOULAR will provide-Jesus. Stop and consider Him today, you’ve already seen the alternatives, and each one is lacking. Try Jesus, better than religion, and He is not even day specific-open on Sundays. Ready to ride with you whenever, or meet your needs where you are. Free road service for the times you can’t get tot the station. Full service, not only at the pump, but at home, work, and play. Now, what else offers you so much for so little?

In a perfect world, we will all someday rely on SOULAR. Why wait, be a trend setter today. Jesus Christ-God’s answer to the energy crisis. Why walk, when you can ride?

love with compassion,
Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

a brotherhood of riders, a brotherhood of saints

Triumph Motorcycles recently celebrated its 110th Anniversary, by coming out with a 110th Anniversary Bonneville, special paint and special price, thanks. For a company that seemed to have gone away for a few years, they never went out of business, but just ceased to do business, it is quite a feat. And looking back at their history and legacy, you might wonder how they managed to make it so far. And you would be right, for numerous bad decisions, engine philosophies, engineering mishaps, and labor disputes almost did the company in. And when England almost succombed to liberal taxing, over bearing unions, and old product that needed serious updating, they were right in the middle of it. I worked with some Englishmen in the 70’s, who used to joke, “would the last person out of London please turn out the lights.” And finally someone did in Meriden, but thankfully John Bloor came along, and today Triumph is building World Class, and class leading motorcycles. All in the space of a generation, they have been reborn, reinventing themselves. And although the lights are out in Meriden, they are shining bright in Hinckley, Leicestire. And so 2012 came and went, with 2013 the 110th Anniversary of the Motor Company. Who almost died their own death before being bought out and taken over by motorcyclists in the early 80’s. Just one generation ago a 110 celebration would have ben a dream, and even the 100 year celebration only a wish and a hope, but this year the loyal can go and pay way too much for paint jobs, badges, more chrome, and adding thousands for Screaming Eagle performance that should have been standard. And they continue to thrive and grow. They know their market.

Back around 1982 a man whose family was steeped in Harley tradition, his father, grandfather, and great grandfather all rode them, was anxious to get his first Glide, he spent his money and was in for a big disappointment. It spent more time in the shop than on the road, or in his own garage. Jokingly he chided he was going to change the registration to the dealer’s address. And finally sold it, blasphemy to his family, and bought another brand, and rode happily ever after. But longed for a Harley, and then one day he made the plunge, and the new Motor Company’s product didn’t disappoint him. And asked at the 100th anniversary about Harley and the history of them, this man made some interesting statements. Ones to consider. His insight via his motorcycling career gave him industry insight, as well as seat time, and knowing those inside the factories. He claimed that Harley survived by improving their bikes, in part. He also claimed they never really made any bad decisions, or dumb ones. Over the years they never rushed a new model to market, unlike their age old competitor Indian, and they didn’t follow any trends, stylish or foolish. “They were fortunate in that they always seemed to have people in charge who knew a bad idea when they saw one.”And so we see two survivors of over 100 years of making motorcycles, fulfilling dreams, and providing memories for countless millions. And they still do today, not losing their focus on who they are, or where they want to go.

Maybe that is why an other V-twin just doesn’t make it, or any other vertical twin isn’t a Triumph. It goes deeper than leather, logos, or stickers. it is more than a pride of ownership, but goes deep into the heart. I learned to enjoy riding with Harley riders again because now I ride my slower bikes at their pace, grimacing when their floorboards grind in curves. And I enjoy when in a group of the loyal, how our Bonnevilles attract attention, from all. Perhaps Spud at Biggs HD says it best, “ we have a common disease, and it is motorcycles.” Amen to that.

Being out as much as I am, I meet may who would like to try riding, but are afraid. Or looking to get back into it. Or what should I buy? I have advised them to take the MSF course first to see if they even want to ride. No posers. And have advised people to purchase Bonnevilles, 883’s, the new Honda 500’s, and other brands. I know what I like, but need to advise people what is best for them. A walk with Jesus requires the same mindset, or spiritual set. We find no denominational borders, or brand specifics in heaven. I have Catholic friends, Lutheran friends, and Presbyterian friends who all love Jesus. Want to bash a Catholic? I was life flighted from a Catholic hospital in Durango, whose motto is to minister to the body of Christ Jesus, and landed at Presbyterian Hospital where my life was saved. Many prayers were asked, and God heard them all, He isn’t denomination specific. He is LOVE specific, and wishes none to die and go to hell. Scripture tells us “all things work together,” what part of all are you? Or do you consider yourself better than all? I have seen denominational barriers broken when all come together in the spirit. Not just of unity, but under the spirit of God, following Jesus. It is Jesus that makes the difference, and it s His fruit we should bear, not what suits us. We are but one family in Christ, just as we are one brotherhood in motorcycling. It is the insecure or those in the pride of sin who consider themselves better, when really we are to consider ourselves as lesser. I once rented from a Catholic lady who used to be a nun, got saved, and married a widower, raising his nine children in the Lord. I have been blessed by Baptist brothers, Pentacostals who get excited about Jesus, and Calvary Chapel where I love the line by line teaching-of all the Bible. Grow where planted, you may be the only Bible, the only Jesus some ever see. And God may use you in a situation to grow you, as well as others. ALL...it is always about Jesus.

So don’t be the stupid one, stupid hurts. Bad choices are not the legacy to leave behind. Know a bad idea when you hear it, and cling to the good ones. Know and trust God, and when in doubt, fall back on what you know, not what you don’t know. Triumph and Harley have both been around a long time, taking different paths to get here. Don’t get off the path, stay on the straight and narrow, stay with Jesus. But as all riders know straight and narrow may be the best way to live, but the curves are where the excitement is. Be like the Motor Company, don’t follow religious trends, stick with Jesus. Jesus is more than stylish, and will not only give you the desires of your heart, but fulfill them too. The road of life is rough, that is why we have shocks and forks. It also has curves, to add excitement. How you ride may tell us about how you live, either way never ride or live without Jesus. Focus on Jesus, for as any rider knows, where your eyes go, the bike will follow. And life, like riding should be a celebration of more than colors and brands.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the same road on a different bike is always different

With time, and its passing, we all have formed relationships. Whether it be at work, at home, on the road, or the coffee shop, we all interact we many people each day. Some on a regular basis, and some over a period of months and years. And each relationship has something to offer, something to give, and something needed from it. They take time, at least the good ones do, and we never are prepared for when they end, even if we see it coming. And when all is said and done, it is only the memories we choose to keep that take us back to that time or place, that person or thing, that ride or trip, that makes it memorable.

We are told that death is the final separation from life, and although not afraid to die, Christians know we are going to heaven, and look forward to it, we aren’t sure about the process. When I almost died, and should have last summer, I never would have envisioned open heart surgery, but thankfully God did. And took me and my family through it, and as we look back, now we can see other’s suffering in a new light. And with optimism, and also with empathy for those left behind, not sympathy. Empathy being we are with you, we may not get what you are going through, but we stand by and love you through it. It is beneficial, Jesus is empathetic. Sympathy is a different attitude, in it says “poor you,” and doesn’t lift up. I cannot imagine what it would be like with only sympathy. We never thought poor us, or poor me, we knew God had it under control. He is there in the bad situations, and the good alike. It is our choice on how we act, or react, with our reactions telling more about our relationship with Jesus than our actions do.

Glen and Penny lost another of their family last night. One of their dogs died, and with no kids, the animals are like their family. With Barney put down earlier this year, now only one barking voice greets them each night. And it is tough after 14 years, but they will get by. Another one is just looking for a home, and although each time we lose a pet, we claim it is the last, our home remains full with two cats and a dog. Time will heal the wounds, and God will comfort them in the loss. Only a dog, or a horse, try empathy. No poor Glen or Penny here, we do hurt with them and for them. But life goes on...

Our friend and Gold Wing rider Stu wrecked his Gold Wing, aka the Buick, Friday night when a woman pulled out in front of him, and he center punched her. The bike may be totaled, Stu is cut and bruised, and he will ride again. But this was a special bike, given to him by Maggie, Dan’s widow when Dan died a few years ago. And as a gift, it has been reasured, and if to be replaced, will be fondly remembered. Each ride is pictures of Dan, but also of his three month ride across America on it. But if it goes, another will replace it, and the new memories, and new rides will begin. I don’t get it, but the same road on a different bike is always a new adventure. And I’m glad it is. Bikes and dogs will come and go in our lives, but we carry on. Clinging to the relationship we once had, looking ahead to what God has for us.

My good friend Fr. Al was buried last weekend. After beating cancer three times, miraculously, he finally passed away. When Dave and Linda last visited him, he told them he was tired, and just wanted to go home. Heaven, his new home was waiting. And as he went home in his sleep, I miss him. His last e-mail was to thank me for the encouragement and kind words, as he was no stranger to death, his brother in law Larry and then his sister Mena passing a few years ago. At home, with Jesus. And as I marvel at how he was such an example to me, I recall what he once told me. Fr. Al, now Bishop Al, was asked to become a bishop. he wrote me, as he always did for prayer, and after praying offered advice. Which was backed up by his answer, his acceptance. Already a busy man doing services at the chapel, and being the heart and soul of Flight 93 Memorial Chapel, he was busy-and sick. But his words encouraged me, “I accept the position, laying it at God’s feet. The same God of grace who offered it to me, will be the same God of grace who will see me through.” Fr. Al, aka Bishop Al, Catholic in life, Christian in heart, is now home with Jesus. No mourning. although I feel tears sometimes, but I came to become friends with someone I never would have thought of. Thankfully our Lord did, and my story continues.

Religion won’t save us, although it may comfort us. Only Jesus, and a relationship with Him will do that. But God reveals His grace to us through pets, motorcycles, friends, and even Catholic priests, who don’t ride, but love bikers. He calls it grace, and we are saved by it. Being a Catholic, Methodist, or attending Calvary Chapel doesn’t assure salvation. Only Jesus will, but He can use those in religion to minister his word. But without Jesus, you have no way to God, no relationship. Not how I choose to live, or die. So as we go through these changes, God is still with us. He rose again, and we will with Him some day. Sorry, no dogs, cats, horses, or motorcycles. Remember Jesus said “on earth, as it is in heaven,” not the other way around. He has something better for us, “that eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor mind imagined” for us in heaven. But we can start enjoying the benefits here and now, with Him. So don’t put it off another day. I never expected to be life flighted, Penny lost her pets unexpectedly, Stu had an accident, and Fr. Al wanted to go home. God has everything in control. Do you?

Be sure by having a relationship with Jesus, and watch as you get closer to Him, the blessings unfold, and the things of earth lose importance. Jesus becomes all important, and provides us with pets, bikes, and friends to bless us. From coastto coast, barn to house, and all those who love Jesus, no matter the denomination, keep Him first. And like He promises, “then all these things shall be added unto you.” His words, His promise, our blessing. Chuck Diederich of Synanon, once infamously said “today is the first day of the rest of your life.” Not bad from a cult leader. Let Jesus be your life, and then rest in Him. Forever. Pets, bikes, cats, dogs, and friends will come and go. Only Jesus remains. Don’t let Him become a memory. We will continue to travel the same roads, but somehow they will be new and different on a different bike, or with new partners. A new bark will replace the old one, and new friends will come into our lives. Only Jesus assures us of heaven. Keep Him fresh in your life, love the memories, and cherish the ones yet to come. Let Him be the rest of your life,, for truly He is the REST in your life.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com