Stan Brein
I had a conversation the other day with a former acquaintance from the motorcycle club. He (let’s say Gary) cold called me after seeing an article from the Pioneer Press that I had written, and thought I would be the appropriate person to talk to. We were not close friends, but had spent some time together. A riding buddy of his was parting with some motorcycle gear. It was in very good condition and he wanted to make sure it would wind up with someone who would put it to use, not bury it on a shelf. My contact with this person was going to be a brief encounter. Go over; say hello and pick up the items. I would see if I could make use of them.
We got to talking. And talk we did. We started with the person who was giving away the items. After weaving through many winding paths, it turned out that I knew this person and had interacted many times in years past. The interactions were good, and it evoked many memories about those times. This person (let’s call him Bob) had a request about the items. There would be no charge for them, but they had to be put to use and enjoyed by the recipient. If the recipient ever tired of them or no longer had use for them, they would have to be given to another person. The same conditions would apply. A pay it forward. No sale. Just take them and enjoy them.
We continued chatting and I found out that I also knew two of his other riding friends. We discussed the particulars and they were all good recollections. Our discussion led to further talk about the specifics and timing of the interactions, our progression through motorcycling, and ultimately, through life. The paths, the ebb, the flow and the navigations of the ups and downs, the good and bad.
The multiple points of connections we shared made me believe he had contacted me for a purpose that we both were not conscious of. It was refreshing to converse with someone about similar, but distinct experiences, bonded through motorcycling. I don’t know if it was spiritual, but it was enjoyable.
The items I received will be put to good use. They will make my motorcycling experiences better. But knowing that I am part of another person’s desire to share those experiences makes it all the better. I am now motivated to do the same: pay it forward. Certainly in the material sense. So many possessions that could better be used and enjoyed by others. I have some of these in every closet and corner of my garage and attic. This also applies to things I know, I am passionate about, and the few things I am good at! I will try to share this with others, and gain fulfillment from watching others enjoy—Pay it forward. The side effects are good!
See you on the road!
Beware of cagers and keep the rubber side down.