A few months ago, upon the wonderful decision to move to Chicago and pursue an education, I started thinking about selling my Harley as a way to help pay for school, rent and the general costs of living. Family and friends told me not to, they told me I was crazy for even thinking it. So, I held off on the idea. I mean, come on, I love my bike... what am I thinking? Right?
As the big move drew near, the thoughts of sharing a place with my lovely Erica and her sister Heather, attending college again and living in a new city were all making my heart go pitter-pat. (Seriously, I can't think of a time when I've been more excited than I am about this!) Along with that also came the practical side of Yours Truly thinking about a job, bills and all of that fun junk. I was trying to think of ways I could save some extra cash to keep out of pocket expenses down, which would also increase the number of hours spent doing homework or taking in the glorious city of Chicago instead of working, so the idea started creeping up again and I gave it some more thought. This time, I didn't tell everybody right away so I couldn't get talked out of it before I could make my own decision. This bike could pay the rent for a year or more, give a little cushion in case of emergency.... from that perspective, it didn't sound so crazy. The thought of going to school full-time and working a more comfortable part-time schedule sounded pretty good. Not only that, where would I keep it? No garage = No Harley... It seemed like a waste to have this beautiful machine sitting in storage, collecting dust and carbon build-up instead of being ridden. It was meant for the open road, for speed and style with a rumble un-matched by any other machine or living creature. I hate seeing a sweet bike or classic car that the owner won't ride because it's worth a lot, it's rare or worse yet, they just "don't have time". The builder made it to run, and that's what it should do.
Along with the afore mentioned practicalities, I had other things to consider.
Not too long ago, a friend of my family and his wife were nearly killed in a motorcycle accident. Fortunately, they survived, but their bodies will never be the same. News of the accident shocked my family and I, and really got me thinking about all of the close calls I've had. Damn! There's been more than I'm comfortable admitting. I reflected back to countless news stories and personal accounts from other riders of fatal or life-changing accidents that I've heard about. I started thinking about my future, my goals and dreams and decided that I really want to be alive to make them happen. I'm not saying I will die if I keep riding, but, I definitely increase my chances every time I hit the road on two wheels. I quit smoking for the same reason (bye the way).
After much deliberation, I decided to hang up my chaps, at least for now, and focus on my family, school and the wonderful future that is un-ravelling in front of me.
So, today it finally happened. I watched my bike, MY Harley, roll down the street in the back of a pick-up truck and out of my life, leaving me with a wad a cash and a million wonderful memories. I know it was the right thing to do, but sometimes saying goodbye is tough, even when it is right.
I'd like to thank my Harley for always being there for me, for making me feel good when I was down and for making one of my childhood dreams come true. I will miss you, 1998 Harley-Davidson FXSTC Softail Custom, but I will never forget you. Thank you for your contribution to my future, and for being an amazing part of my past. I will always appreciate you.
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