for the Love of the Ride
I just love to ride, period. For as long as I can remember I’ve been riding one bike or another. I never much cared what it was, as long as it took me to that place I longed for. The freedom of the road, the feeling of solitude and time with my Creator that only the road can deliver. Long before I was a Christian, I had a strong sense that there was something “bigger” than me, keeping it all in check. Even though I didn’t have a relationship with God, I always felt his presence in my life. But never more than when I was in the wind, just enjoying His creation. I never really rode with any groups, very much anyway. It was never about that for me. I have no problem with those that do, that’s one of the most powerful parts of riding, the freedom to choose. That’s what’s on my mind today: the freedom to choose. I know it flies in the faces of some when I say, I doesn’t matter what you ride, just ride!!
the freedom to choose
I have owned many bikes over the years: Metrics, British and American. I can honestly say, I prefer Harley-Davidsons, but not because “It’s a Harley or nothing” attitude some have, but because I dig the weight, the vibrations and the feel of the road they offer. I’ve had just as much fun, and felt the same freedom flying a VTX up a mountain road, or screaming down a freeway on a Triumph chopper. At the moment, I have a sweet Road King that gets me there, but there’s a cool Buell Lightning in the garage that’s scary fast, we built for my bro Johnny Miller a few weeks before he left us to be with the Lord. Whenever I take that little Hot-Rod out, the thrill of the ride is indescribable; a time to look back on all the years and miles I spent with Johnny, bringing me some extra healing power.
Everyone has their own type of bike they ride, whether it’s just personal preference or because of financial restraint. Who gives a rip!! We’re all in the wind for the same reason: We just love to ride! This magazine and the Unity Rides have always fostered and promoted Unity among the motorcycle community, whether you ride a Harley or a Honda, male or female, Christian or not. It’s just about riding and sharing our faith and our passion with others that share a love for the road. So yeah, when I pass another rider on a beautiful twisting mountain road, I throw a wave out there because I know they are in the exact place I am. Feeling free and loving every minute of it.
I can tell you this, I’m not going to mess my “good time” up by passing judgment or looking down on someone because they don’t ride the same bike I’m riding, in fact just the opposite! And when I see another brother or sister in a good place, just like me, if I get the chance I’ll be quick to share my faith as well. Either way, I still have my knees in the breeze and the wind in my face, enjoying the fact that I’m a biker. Yep, that’s pretty much why I do it… I just love to ride.
Denver Cooley
San Bernardino, CA
