Stanley Mirek called it a “murdercycle.” He had been a policeman in Chicago for years before moving to Chatham, and had seen a lot of bad motorcycle accidents. He couldn’t believe I actually rode a “murdercycle” with “Eliminator” emblazoned on the faring. But I did.
That bike was eliminated in a serious accident, but I wasn’t on it at the time. My next bike had to be replaced due to crash in the neighborhood on my way to a Bible study that resulted in a few stitches on my chin, and I broke five ribs on my way to Tennessee on my Harley after someone pulled out in front of me.
So why do I still ride? Especially at my age! I ride because I still enjoy it. I’ve assessed the risks and determined it’s worth it.
There was a time when I didn’t think it was. I had two small kids at home, and the thought of taking an unnecessary risk that might leave them fatherless made me stay off a bike for a number of years. Now that I’m just a grandpa, I feel I’m free to take the risk. But I do moderate the risk. I always wear a helmet.
It’s not a full-face helmet, and I don’t wear all the gear all the time (ATGATT) which is no doubt the safest way to ride, but I do wear a helmet. Those who don’t probably think I’m doing something that’s unnecessary, and those who go ATGATT no doubt think I’m taking unnecessary risks.
I’m not offended if someone expresses concern about my safety, and I may do the same for someone else. But I don’t believe anyone should force someone to do what they do just because they think they should. I think you can see where this is going.
Some of us have determined that the risk in coming to church is too great at this time. Others have decided it’s worth the risk. I don’t feel it’s my place to try to convince anyone one way or another. But I do think we should all continually assess the ever-changing risks, and do what we feel God would have us do.
And as soon as possible, we all do need to be back together in worship.
God Bless, Rick
Chatham Christian Church 