The adventure into Malaysia had multiple goals; give a new rider time and space to ride with guidance and safety. It sounded like it would be easy as we talked about it. What we did not count on was the thunderstorm that lasted for more than an hour. Fortunately, it hit was we were exiting Singapore – but that is another story! Clearing the two custom checkpoints took well over an hour. Tired, sore, and wet, we reload and reset our minds at the petrol station just past the border. Refreshed, as much as one could be, we spent a few minutes getting the new rider comfortable on the small bike. As I watched, I could see one minor thing to bring to the rider’s attention. It was a habit that needed to be corrected early.
In the ride that followed, I was reminded how important guidance was and is. Specific reminders included the following.
Each phase of a journey has guidance that fits within the stage and setting. It does little good to bring guidance that is best understood in the context of experience. Early guidance is like an invitation. If you want the best, be prepared; “bring gifts and celebrate.” (Psalm 96.8) On a ride, jeans, shoes, and gloves are a great starting point. Anticipating our rain storm, foul weather gear is very helpful.
Guidance includes reinforcing what one does well. It is as, probably more, important to recognize and celebrate what one has and is doing well! Never presume that the other can confidently discern the difference between what they thought they should do and what are great habits. Reinforcing and celebrating the good can lead to good habits that form the foundation for safe riding.
When another has experience, use that experience to teach. The dirty an dangerous air spilling off of a big truck or bus is, one experienced, easy to understand. Providing a mini-science lesson and discussion of the experience lead to much more.
The world is a dangerous place, moving or standing. Living is engaging. It is time to ride.
