7 Relationships that Enrich your Life

No one is an island. Not even a free-spirited, independent motorcycle rider. Your path evolves through a complex web of interdependent relationships. This means everyone benefits when you do things do things for others. Your role is also to accept with gratitude, the gifts from others.

small_42470163657 Relationships that Enrich your Life

 

  1. Self. All systems have to work together for the machine to operate maximum efficiency. It matters not that your gas tank is full if your tires are worn out or your battery is dead. Fuel, electrical, hydraulic and mechanical systems all need to be functioning well to achieve safe and effective performance.Your body is merely the physical component of your being so taking good care of it respects who you are. Dysfunctions in your energy systems and spiritual body affect your physical body.

 

  1. Friends and Family. A motorcycle relies on its operator for instruction and direction. Without a rider, the bike just sits there.While there are wild individual differences on the quantity, humans thrive with social contact. An interdependent relationship is far more fulfilling than one where partners are independent or dependent.

 

  1. Team. Introducing a passenger changes the dynamics and affects suspension, handling and how much luggage you can carry. You now have to consider someone else’s comfort and desires. While it’s a very different experience than riding solo, it can be enriching in other ways.People come and go in your lives, joining you for different parts of your journey. Each has something to teach you. You need to consider the influence of others without losing focus on where you’re going.

 

  1. Tribe. Most new riders are amazed at the instant bond, camaraderie and compassion amongst riders. Sometimes you’ve been searching for years for the right tribe.When you find your clan, you discover a common bond from which you not only derive strength as individuals but also gather that strength to increase the cohesiveness of the community as a whole.

 

  1. Experts. Proficient riding doesn’t just happen. Qualified instructors teach you safety skills, mechanics work on your bikes – or teach you how to do the work yourself; apparel experts advise you what to look for in gear and how to combine function and fit. Manufacturers design the right bike and accessories for you. The list is endless.Your lives evolve under the tutelage of many experts: teachers, colleagues, coaches, consultants and mentors. Your task is to follow your heart and let pragmatism and intuition guide you as to who to follow.

 

  1. Advocates. An erosion of rights, which surfaces within the motorcycling world is often a harbinger of things to come for your larger society. Rider and industry associations such as the MCC (Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada), MMIC ( Motorcycle and Moped Industry Council – Canada), AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) and MIC ( Motorcycle Industry Council ) are fierce advocates and protectors of your rights as motorcyclists – and citizens.Your lifestyle, the rights and freedoms that you enjoy have come about through the dedication and focus and persistence of others. Erosion of rights is insidious and it’s up to you to remain vigilant, active and support and honor those who protect your rights.

 

  1. Community. You affect many lives beyond your own. A single act of kindness is remembered forever. Conversely, your course can be drastically changed by the actions of others, a momentary lapse of your own judgment, an unexpected curve, construction, detours and even weather. The wise path is to be prepared with skills, attitudes and awareness.You are connected to all other life. You share a common spirit and a common source of power. If you allow yourself to accentuate differences – gender, age, culture or values – that separates you. Looking for the common ground creates harmony and strengthens all.

 

These interdependent relationships that make your riding experience possible, extend into your larger world. Take a moment to reflect on your extended network of friends, associates and colleagues and your common interests. Not only will be surprised at the resources that are available to you, you’ll gain a new appreciation of those who are already working to enrich your life.

 

 

photo credit: POPOEVER via photopin cc

About

Author, writer, and student Liz Jansen combines her artistic mediums to create stories that inspire readers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery.