I recently went to a reunion of a school I last attended thirty-seven years ago. The school closed almost twenty years ago, so the event was held in Las Vegas. Of the 250 people there on the weekend, I was unique. I was the only one that road a motorcycle to the event. My reasoning was practical. The Harley was available. Others in the family needed the cars. Most importantly, I knew the ride would be an adventure.
As the weekend unfolded, I met old and new friends. The time we spent together was surprisingly fun! From pictures through the retelling of old stories and on to special food that we enjoyed during those eras, there was far more that bound us together than separated.
As I got ready to go, I realized that I was alone in embracing certain reminders of the trip ahead. My attire on Sunday was unique. Carbon fiber impregnated jeans, boots, leather jacket, a helmet, and leather globes provided my foundation. If that did not stand out, the orange kerchief wrapped around my neck was one of a kind. For me, it was not about be different. Everything I wore was for protection and comfort as well as to remind myself of the dangers ahead.
I found myself reading a story about an old wisdom father. “Paul stayed a while longer in Corinth, but then it was time to take leave of his friends. Saying his good-byes, he sailed for Syria, Priscilla and Aquila with him. Before boarding the ship in the harbor town of Cenchrea, he had his head shaved as part of a vow he had taken.” (Acts 18.18) Paul’s moves were more for him than for others.
I do not always ride this way. I find that being prepared makes a difference. When I give myself reminders, I ride with greater awareness. My eyes are more alert. My senses naturally sharpen. I would not describe it as stressful. It is simply a way of being.
Today is unwritten. I wonder what kind of reminders I will give myself.
