CMA Corner August ’24

Awareness…

In the motorcycling world, we are all very aware of the dangers of riding. We don’t ride in fear, however there is a silent respect we have for our machines and those around us. We must maintain this attitude because of the lack of attention given by others driving on the roads we travel. This awareness becomes a routine part of our riding skills and even filters over to our cages…at least it should. There’s something else that should be part of our routine as well.

‘What are you getting at MG?’

Being aware of everything and everyone around us is a learned practice and a purposeful protection that comes with experience and an understanding of ‘Murphy’s Law’. That is a realization that anything, at any time, could rise up and create an issue and if we aren’t paying attention, could wreak havoc on us.

We have experienced a couple of mishaps and serious accidents recently and it has made me take a good look at what is most important in this life. It has also made me quite aware of the need for protection, both physically and spiritually. The something else I was speaking of earlier that should be part of our routine is prayer. Inviting the Lord into everything we do brings a hedge of protection around us that keeps the surprises at a minimum. Rex and I do this every time we leave the house, no matter what vehicle we choose to go in.

‘But I don’t talk to God…I don’t even know where or how to begin!’ It’s very simple…’Lord, be with me today as I go about my way. Open my eyes to danger and bring me back home safely.’

Maybe you are thinking that you don’t even know if you believe in all of that. Perhaps you run with the attitude that ‘fate is fate and there’s nothing that will change it’. Here’s where we might differ in opinion and that is okay, but I would like to share my thoughts with you.

To me, going out without the covering of prayer is like going out when it’s looking like rain without any raingear. When it starts to rain, the gear won’t do much good if it’s still in the saddlebag or left at home. The result is that we are going to be wet and usually very uncomfortable. Had we taken the time to put on the gear over dry clothes…or remembered to put them back on the bike after cleaning like someone I hold very dear did, but that’s another story…we would at least be more comfortable and less aggravated. Same goes for prayer covering. We may not have any worries for the day, or… something like a cage mindlessly pulls out in front of you from a dead stop and just missed you by inches because you ‘had a hunch’ and slowed down just enough to avoid the collision before the guy, again, mindlessly pulled out. Is it foolproof? No, but it is faith-full and when we are ready with the right gear, we are ready for anything.

Bottom line: There is surety in the hope of God and there is power in His name. That’s where we put our trust. That’s where we become more aware of everything and everyone around us. If you aren’t quite sure of that, then be sure of this…when we see you out and about, we pray for you, whether you know it or not. It’s what we do. When you see CMA anywhere at any time, don’t hesitate to stop a moment and say ‘hey’. Don’t be taken by surprise if some of us are bold enough, (probably this five foot, ball of enthusiasm because I forget about ‘rules’, never have been too good at that), to speak to you as well. We won’t harp, preach or judge. We are bikers and just like you, we are out enjoying the adventure, covered and ready for anything ol’ Murphy attempts to throw at us.

Be safe, be aware and be ready! We will see you around, I am sure! Y’all are invited to come to our Rally in September in St. Marys at Cross Oak Camp on Jack Point Rd. Bring the whole family! There’s something for everyone! September 20-22. Camping available!

Catch you in the Wind!

Mary G.