“Why not give as good as I received,” a
quote from the novel, “Pay It Forward,” by Catherine
Ryan Hyde.
Recently, Spokes-Women member Alex Pesacreta spoke these words as
a reminder that all of us were new riders at one time. And,
as we grow in experience, we should offer assistance to riders with
less experience just as others have helped us.
However, I have come to fully appreciate the philosophy of “Pay
It Forward.” The words go far beyond assisting
one another become better motorcyclists. This simple statement
is an attitude we can use to make our corner of the world a better
place. It is a way of life that is alive and well within many
clubs of the motorcycling community. The pay it forward viewpoint
is demonstrated by the many charitable fundraisers, invitations to
rallies and co-rides that we have been invited to participate in.
Whether newbie or experienced rider, we need not limit ourselves
to helping just some to reach their full potential. For that
matter, we need not limit the club to reaching its full
potential.
So what’s the point? As our ride season begins, remember
we can all give something to another member that helps to make our
shared experience with Spokes-Women better: Have patience,
think positive, speak as you would want to be spoken to, encourage
rather than discourage, offer assistance, and never leave someone
behind!
Experienced riders can sometimes become impatient with new riders,
and vice versa. Often, experienced riders become annoyed with
other experienced riders. If, or when you become frustrated
by anyone not riding within safe group riding rules, then bring the
matter to the ride Captain.
The Spokes-Women Club has always welcomed riders with varied skills
as long as they pass club requirements. As in the past, for
our more challenging rides, we can split into two groups: fast and
slow. The object of our club has always been to share the sport
of motorcycling among women riders and to foster camaraderie between
all our members. We can achieve both if we remember to, “Pay
It Forward.”
Ride Safe, have fun!
Respectfully,
Pat Gwozdz
President |
