This is inspired by an actual event, that occurred during a motorcycle tour I, and 3 friends made of the USA in 1970.
That Far Horizon
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Leaning comfortably into the turns, breeze streaming through our long hair, we wind our way into the mountains, into the evening, alive with the two-wheeled freedom of the open road, not counting days, not keeping track. We’re just feet up and rolling – free!
We glide between alternating shadow and light, as the sun reveals itself, from time to time, warming us from between the peaks, as it begins to settle behind the western slope of the Rockies.
Four friends who’ve shed the structured mantle of life, to venture into the random, the unknown — to embrace the magnificent perfection of living in, and for, the moment.
Up out of Boulder, down into Dream Canyon we scramble, each rider alternately surging to the front of the pack — enjoying the thrill of the throttle! Flying, without leaving the ground.
Down we sail, twisting along the asphalt as it snakes its way. Upcoming curves often hidden from view, disappearing behind the rise of a slope. Mountain peaks soar, enfolded in clouds, that roll snd tumble through the brilliant blue sky.
We charge onward, transfixed by the wonders surrounding us, filled with an exhilarating touch of danger, to season this awesome excitement of discovery!
It’s five decades since those days of freedom. My days are not so carefree now. I’m rooted in responsibility, balancing the blessings and the burdens of life — bent by the yoke of worry, made heavy by the weight of loss.
I now lean into life, feet firmly planted, braced against the changing winds of time and fate. Yet, occasionally, I still feel that longing for freedom stir, feel that 4-cycle vibration beneath me, feel that breeze on my face, once more tossing my youthful mane.
A smile nudges its way onto my face, coaxed by those memories of freedom — of potent, visceral friendship. Someday, before it is too late, I would love one last time, to lift my feet, roll that throttle, and race toward that far horizon.
engine oil changed
handgrips cleaned — tire pressure checked
the highway beckons
~ ~ ~
rob kistner © 2019
