The world is a bit messy right now. The climate is in hell, our rights are being taken away, the world is on the verge of fascism, thousands of people are still dying from a global pandemic the world has chosen not to end. , and everything is increasingly run by billionaire kleptocrat dipshits . There’s more motivation than ever to find joy in the little things, if only to keep yourself from falling mentally. In order not to drown myself in existential fear, I tend to look to the future, I towards the next, I aim for long journeys on two wheels.
I’ve listened to a lot of Nerdist podcasts in the past, and one of the hosts — Jonah Ray, current host of MST3K — has a spell; “Enjoy your burrito.” The story goes that he’s in a job he hates, but he’ll occasionally spend lunchtime in the sun eating a delicious food truck burrito. When he eats the last bite of a tortilla with cheese, meat, and vegetables, he’ll find himself sad for a little joy in a bad day that’s about to end. A spell had to be cast for him to start living in the moment and really enjoying the good times.
Instead of feeling regret when the door is closing, try to enjoy the one that opened in the first place.
I try to keep that mentality when riding a motorbike. I enjoy every minute of it, even as I grow increasingly frustrated by the state of things. There is no reason for joy to disappear from your life. Allow yourself, even temporarily, to let go of the things you can’t change right away. Whether you’re riding a motorcycle on your way to work for a boss you despise, or you’re just out for some fresh air, always know that every minute on two wheels counts. Be present, on time and above all safe.
I’ve had so many great opportunities to ride some really great bikes, and there’s so much left in the world that I want to ride. In fact, since it’s raining right now, I’ll probably take a walk around town in the evening. No matter how long I’ve ridden a motorbike, or how many personal rides I’ve taken, I will always find joy in it, until the very end, and hopefully even beyond. No matter what the world throws at you, a nice trip on a nice day is one of the best ways to clear your mind. And don’t let it sour when you put your foot down.
If you see me riding, give me a dismount signal and I’ll send it right back to me. And you can bet I’ll enjoy my ride. I will also enjoy my burgers.
