Sunday, October 25, 2020

Sport Touring: An exercise in Remembrance and Solitude*

I often look up to the sky to  admire a flock of flying creatures on their migration route to more suitable grounds, driven by their instincts. I must admit I am jealous, the ability to fly and explore this sphere is mesmerizing, soon after that I must acknowledge that we are different species and our vehicles of transport differ immensely. Similarly, I often observe the obese iron hogs rumble by with their ape hangers and loud tunes two-up rolling unapologetically on to their next watering hole. I observe, ponder and move on for I realize that Sport touring is a matter of choice and thus I often choose to be a solo rider (with a few exceptions). I may be unable to articulate to a satisfactory degree as to why I ride, however, I am certain as to why I choose to ride solo.


 The time was circa 2012, when Master Chief walked into my life, a dashing fawn creature with an epic personality. I was overwhelmed by the kindness and genuine affection directed towards me. It had been a long while since I had experienced such genuine intentions. I suposse as humans one often questions intention, motives, reasons and doubt that anyone or anything can be really that unbelievably caring. And so for the next few months Chief made it a point to convert me into a believer and ultimately utterly change my perspective and impacted my existence. Unfortunately, Chief departed my life abruptly circa 2015. Ever since, I have been trying to find a way to remember and honor an old friend whom taught me the fundamentals of being human. It finally occurred to me that the best way to honor my old friend would be to carry on his name with me everywhere I travel, just like that flock of creatures we will travel together. It will be Master Chief and I exploring the world. And that is how I decided to name my mechanical steed "Master Chief". I choose to ride alone, but the memory of my Canine Friend will accompany me until we meet again.  My name is Fredo and this is my reality, exponentially beautiful reality.
                                           Mechanical Master Chief (10/2020)
                                         Master Chief (circa 2014)


*I wrote this piece with a sad prescient feeling hovering over me.  Less than a day after I hit publish on this blog post, I was notified that my other Boxer pup Samson, the dashing one on  my profile picture will be departing this world soon.  After 11 years on this sphere he is ready to cross over, until we meet again dear friend.  Toot toot.