A Struggling Gypsy...

[DDT (12)]

A Struggling Gypsy…
 
Indecision can be a result of confusion from lack of information, of being overwhelmed with too much conflicting information, or of simply a lack of motivation. It does, interestingly, often include among other things a lack of direction, inspiration, or purpose.
 
Whatever might be causing our ‘deer caught in the headlights’ condition, however, it can be downright unnerving just as easily it can also be exciting and invigorating. I’ve found this proposition to be a bit more than simply viewing a glass as ‘half full or half empty’, however.
 
My coddiewomple does not include an impossible effort to fill in all the blanks to a point where any ill-effects of ‘lack of clarity’ are obliterated. It is to some degree about learning to more fully embrace the ever-present permanent condition of perpetual unknowns, and of learning to enjoy and even to look forward to encountering the unexpected surprises sure to be found in our path all along our undetermined route.
 
The origin of my curiosity about such things, I suppose, comes in part from my wanting to comfortably deal with all the realities of a completely free lifestyle: Free from the mind-numbing to me routine of a more traditional lifestyle. To discard the chains of commitment and obligation and to wander at will in any and all directions: To be totally unfettered and completely comfortable in thought, mind, body, and spirit. With that, however, comes the companion reality of the apparent loss of 'certainty', predictability, and to a large extent clarity.
 
I was willing to accept the tradeoffs… I wanted desperately to take a step back from it all and determine for myself ‘how things are’… To be confident with what is 'right and wrong' without ideologs and self-serving others seeking to manipulate my thoughts and to influence my conclusions and beliefs on all important matters: To be a truly independent, whole person.
 
Sadly, throughout much of my life I’d come to realize, I was essentially the product of what I call ‘external influences’ with precious little being the product of my own intense personal examination. My coddiewomple (Vision Quest) is also in part about addressing the sad, under-nourished state of my impoverished soul.
 
Following our most recent InZane gathering, I smiled as I read the thoughtful posts of many letting the rest of us know they’d arrived ‘home’ safely. I’d thought to myself how I was also safely at home… that I’m always home wherever I may be! Heck, I’d been ‘at home’ in Dubuque… Our return to east Tennessee had been quite pleasant with no boo-boos or aw-shucks events to break our enjoyable rhythm.
 
Soon, I was again back out on the road alone aboard our girl facing the ever-present challenge of where to next…? I was, of course, still ‘home’, but without the usual sense of a safe, familiar base within which to maintain our equilibrium that we usually associate with that designation. I found myself again struggling to decide direction… I began earnestly searching Google Maps and the Airbnb websites. I was lost… I was back in that same ol’ rut I’d never fully escaped!
 
Several temporary rental units suitable for us in various parts of the country were found, so I’d set about considering all the usual things including temperatures, expected foul weather, time and distance impact upon the next round of doctor visits… The usual routine! Wait, what am I doing here?!
 
It almost seemed as though I’d simply changed only the superficial details of my existence, but I’d seemingly modified very little many of the actual things I’d set out to alter… I sorely needed to back up and rethink my situation…! I’d unwittingly slipped out of that glorious ‘groove’ and right back into a mundane, monotonous ‘rut’… again…
 
I’d taken a motel room for a couple of days to relax in solitude and reflect upon my life and my current status, and to seriously consider any adjustments I might need to make. Yep, when in doubt, go for a ride! I rode just under two-hundred miles on a near perfect ‘day-ride’ mostly just to clear the cobwebs and refocus. It worked!!!
 
The following day I put away for the time being any thoughts of hunkering down some place and replaced them with renewed desire to wander on… towards milder temps, of course… It didn’t really matter where we were headed; it mattered only that we were enthusiastically headed out yonder!
 
A plan completely devoid of any details, specificity, or even general direction! Yes, it lacked all the things usually associated with a ‘plan’, but for this wanderer, it had rekindled the urge to move on, and that was all the plan I needed.
 
Before that day-ride, I’d felt like a flat-footed shortstop cursing as routine ‘grounders’ sped past just beyond my grasp. Afterward, I felt like I was up on the balls of my feet again, confident I could turn the next hit in my direction into a double play! With not one iota more clarity than before, a debilitating condition had been wondrously transformed into an invigorating one, at least for the time-being. 
 
It always amazes me how the same things can appear so different to us depending simply upon how we choose to ‘see’ them… However, a meaningful change in thought does not appear to be quite as easy as simply changing the internal narrative of our ongoing self-talk… although, that is an important piece of the overall solution.
 
There seems to be a need usually for some intervening, transformative event, observance, or ‘lightbulb over the head’ thought to uplift us spiritually in order to alter our state of mind… Something as simple as a therapeutic day-ride, for instance, often seems to facilitate the working of miraculous wonders for some of us…
 
Lee Marvin sang in one of his solos in the movie ‘Paint Your Wagon’, “I was born under a wandering star…” I’m pretty sure I was, as well… Like him, though, I’m not wandering away from any fearful knowns, I’m deliberately wandering towards something wonderful that is simply unknown to me at the moment… when I’m in the right frame of mind, that is…
 
DDT (12)
 

[Valker]

As always, Bruce, well said.

[DDT (12)]

Eric,

Thanks, my friend! Are you now safely home? Are you ready to fill us in on your grand adventure? I already have some popcorn with me, I'm just waiting for a good reason to nuke it!

DDT (12)

[Valker]

Eric,

Thanks, my friend! Are you now safely home? Are you ready to fill us in on your grand adventure? I already have some popcorn with me, I'm just waiting for a good reason to nuke it!

DDT (12)

I am home now. I've been ruminating on this latest Alaska sojourn. It was a wonderful time for sightseeing as the pace was mild, the weather was chamber of commerce quality, and the company was good as much DNA was similar. It was only about 8200 miles over about 25 days. That was the second Alaska trip on this particular Valkyrie. Both trips on the Valk totaled about 18,000 miles and resulted in a grand total of one mechanical issue-I burned out a brake light bulb. Had to replace it on the road for a total of $2.89. I think it was a faulty bulb though because I had replaced it with a new one the week before I left. I always put in a new one to lessen the chances of a burned out bulb.   I don't think that's too bad for the almost 230,000 miles on it. Mine is now only about half a million miles behind yours.
Caleb captured about 2.5 Terabytes of pictures and video. He hopefully will get it edited before too long. There was some self discovery involved as I learned that my tent/cot days are probably over. Several days of that led to a very sore lower back/hip situation. Walking has been a rather 'iffy' and painful endeavor. Motels are probably more in my future. I have canceled a trip this month that I had planned to the Historic Motorcycle races near Columbus as I figured that would be way too much walking. I will substitute a week long trip into the northern NM and southern CO mountains. Next month I will take a four wheeled trip in the air conditioned convertible (possibly the Ridgeline) to pick up my 78 year old sister in Ohio. We will meander SE from there through Athens and down the Blue Ridge Parkway to visit my daughter in Chattanooga. We will roam from there back to her house in Granbury, TX. I'll probably spend one day there then back home. Not much else is planned except for staying out of the worst of the heat.
I've tried my hand at writing ride reports before, but even I thought my efforts sucked. I'd much rather visit in person and tell the stories.

[Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005]

Always read the words of DDT . Where are you now ? They claim a good chance of rain for the next several days here and we sure need it . Stay safe my friend and RIDE ON 

[Oss]

Wonderful and thoughtful words

I just know that if you do not know where you are going any road can take you there.

Yes, having even a few of those pesky medical type appointments can push one's thoughts back into a pattern less than your soul would want

But your decision to just ride, as usual, was the reset button that soul needed

Keep on truckin Bruce and it was real good seeing you in Iowa

Oss

[Rams]

Generally speaking, we are a product of our environment, something we have little control over but, we can decide to break that mold and enjoy what is out there.   It ain't easy but can be done with enough effort and the right attitude.  Bruce, you are truly blessed.

Ride safe and watch yer six.

Rams

[RDAbull]

Instead of Lee's "Wondering Star"
How about Tony's:  Who Knows, could be? It's only just out of reach, down the block, on the beach.
Under a tree?

Always fun seeing what you are doing/thinking.

Ride On!!

[Valkorado]

Been wondering where the winds have blown ya!  Great to hear from ya, tumbleweed.  And great, retrospective read.

Everybody's kinda running from something, whether they're settled or not.  No matter what path we choose in life, reality will always step in.  I think that holds true for paupers like me and billionaires too.  We can't run from reality, but we should pull over catch up with reality from time to time -- for old times sake and new perspectives.

The path you've chosen is perfect-amundo for you, Bruce!  You're like Bronson, riding around and handing pearls of wisdom to friends and strangers alike.  You're cut from another mold.  Like you have said many times, the life you've chosen ain't for everybody.  Many of us read your stories of The Endless  Coddiewomple through life from soul sucking workspaces and chore demanding homes with great envy, but few of us would have the stamina and enthusiasm needed to rack up the big (almost a million now?) miles.  And the dough.  A week of 'womple with associated motels and restaurants about puts me over my annual fun budget.  You chuckle about losing gear, and if a maintenance issue pops up help isn't more than a phone call (and sometimes a wait) away.  That's a benefit of being a legend, and a great dude.

Those affordable, cobweb clearing day rides are precious to me lately.  I usually don't arrive home with any great revelations, but I almost always feel refreshed.  I took the old Bullet out for a 150 miler yesterday afternoon.  Great ride in spite of the tourist traffic.  It's always a joy riding that old bike, built in October 1996.  I love the beach bars and cobra risers, and the bike just "fits" me perfectly.  Comfy old dinosaur.

Glad you're keeping on keeping on.  Heck, it's what you do.  If your journey brings you to your 'home' here in Gunnison let me know.  It would be awesome seeing and talking with you again, and riding with the legend.

[Mooskee]

Good to see you posting again Bruce. Glad you are finding your lack of direction ;-)
The Lee Marvin reference reminded of another song from that movie. "That's the way it goes; first your money then your clothes."
I realize that has little relevance to the post except perhaps to show that my mind wanders as much as you do. ;-)
Ride safely my friend. I think of, and pray for you often.

Dave

[DDT (12)]

Eric,

Listening to your stories is really a fascinating experience! You do have a way of making things interesting, thought-provoking, and humorous at the same time! I'm serious about wanting to hear about this summer's big adventures, so perhaps we can get together sometime later and compare notes... Have you ever been to the Fall Color Ride in Robbinsville, NC? Think about it... We'll find you a place to stay, so all we're missing is you! It's the third weekend in October every year... Hope you can make it.

DDT (12)



Joe,

Hey, my friend! I'm in South Dakota at the moment on a special mission... I'll be writing about it soon, so I'll skip the details for now. Our girl has 777K on her clock, about to roll over another thousand soon. Life has its ups and downs for sure, and recently I've passed through one of the downs myself. Not a major case of the droopy lips, but serious enough to shut me down for a while... I'm so much better now, though, and I'm really looking forward to your next edition of the FCR! See ya there!!!

DDT (12)



Evan,

It was great seeing you again in Dubuque, too! Heck, it's always great hanging out with you and listening to whatever it is that you're speaking about at the moment... Not just wisdom flows from your words, but reminders and examples of the role of character, integrity, and fair play always seem to find their way into your words, and I for one thoroughly enjoy hearing about those things! I aspire to be such a person myself... That's a big part of why I'm on this coddiwomple in the first place! Yes, I do have my ups and downs, and I'm proving to be a bit moody now and then, to my dismay... Oh well, there is still a lot of work for me to do towards self-improvement!

DDT (12)




Ron,

You and I have kicked around that nature vs nurture thing before. I agree with you on nearly everything we've discussed... the rest I can't remember! I am having a wonderful ride of discovery, and I can't imagine not having had the opportunity to have made it! I am indeed blessed! You are correct about my not wanting to settle for 'the answers' provided by my prior programming, as that has let me down on occasion, and it has proven to be just plain wrong on some others. I need to feel confident in my beliefs, so I'm determined to formulate those for myself as far as possible...

DDT (12)




Roger,

Many songs and their lyrics seem to underscore thoughts I have along the way... Many of my friends also stimulate good thoughts, as well! You are one of those I always look forward to chatting with and listening to your insights... I hope to see you at the FCR! Do you plan to write about your own big adventure this year?

DDT (12)




Seth,

Thanks for your always thoughtful response! We each must play the hand fate deals to us, and I must agree with you that mine is perfect for this humble gypsy! I have no idea when I might wander back towards the Black Canyon of the Gunnison again, but if or when I do, you can bet I'll let you know! I always enjoy our chats, and we're long overdue for another jaw-fest!!!

DDT (12)




Dave,

My friend, what can I say? Thank you for all you do and for all you've done for me and for so many others. Your life has made a difference for a multitude of folks... I call folks like you 'Impact players'. For the personal growth I've gained from our brief times together, I can only say... THANKS! I'm very much looking forward to more to come!!! (Thanks also for the prayers on my behalf... they surely have worked!!!)

DDT (12)

[Valker]

Bruce, that FCR for October 18-20 is now on my calendar.

[Willow]

Good times, Bruce.

You have largely been characterized as one who does not plan.  I would contest that and otherwise say that you are one who's plan is very, very flexible.  It's good for one to not be held captive by rigid planning.   

[Mooskee]

Bruce, I am blessed and humbled by your words. Thanks. Ride safe and free my friend.

[carolinarider09]

Lee Marvin sang in one of his solos in the movie ‘Paint Your Wagon’, “I was born under a wandering star…” I’m pretty sure I was, as well… Like him, though, I’m not wandering away from any fearful knowns, I’m deliberately wandering towards something wonderful that is simply unknown to me at the moment… when I’m in the right frame of mind, that is…
 
DDT (12)
 

Enjoyed reading your writeup and I had forgotten about Lee Marvin and "I was born under a wandering star".   Now I remember from my childhood (well young teenager).   Good memories sir...   Thanks.

[DDT (12)]

Eric,

Fantastic! I've sent you a PM regarding possible sleeping accommodations... let me know what you think. Also, let's stay in touch... We might be able to arrange a hook-up so I can guide you there. That, plus I might could get a preview of coming attractions regarding your adventure stories!

DDT (12)



Carl,

I've known all along that you saw right through me regarding planning! While I do generally maintain maximum flexibility, as you've known all these years, some amount of planning is quite simply unavoidable! I'm no exception!!! As always, I look forward to our next chat session...

DDT (12)



Dave,

You are welcome!

DDT (12)



Jim,

You are welcome, too! Funny how some of those oldies can stick with us... Perhaps that's one of the reasons they're called classics, huh? I'm glad you enjoyed the story, and I'm really glad for the compliment! Being a 'contributing author' yourself, let me also thank you for your contributions to the general body of knowledge... If you're coming to the FCR, perhaps we can swap some yarns...?

DDT (12)

[Valker]

Thanks, Bruce. Reply sent.

[DDT (12)]

Eric,

Got it! We're all set!

DDT (12)

[LadyDraco]

https://youtu.be/y7fAYAVuBRQ?t=2

[DDT (12)]

Tracy,

Thanks for that! I hadn't listened to it in some time, so it was nice to refresh my recollection! The message still rings true to this wanderer as loudly today as it did when I first heard it... Have I ever mentioned that I love my life...?

DDT (12)

[Valker]

Tracy,

Thanks for that! I hadn't listened to it in some time, so it was nice to refresh my recollection! The message still rings true to this wanderer as loudly today as it did when I first heard it... Have I ever mentioned that I love my life...?

DDT (12)

Bruce, I said that Caleb was taking lots of pics and video. Here is his first release.
https://youtu.be/ddRbvhDMDt0?si=SQuoyzsK_hrAZhhK

[DDT (12)]

Eric,

WOW! One Hell of a trip indeed! Caleb has a genuine talent, so it is most definitely worth the time to view!!! He has done what most of the rest of us only attempt to do: Capture the 'essence' of sights and the thrill of the ride... Very well done!!! Now I'm even more eager to hear the stories!

DDT (12)

[Oss]

thanks for the link Eric   very cool stuff

[Valkorado]

Yes great video, looks like you guys had an epic trip!  Sure is beautiful up there!

[LadyDraco]

Outstanding  .....

[old2soon]

     Bruce we swapped tales a time or three and we both I Know Enjoy The RIDE! RIDERS as we all Know Are Different than folks that no Ride. We can relate a RIDE in person and usually see the grin or the gleam in the other RIDERS eyes as we talk. THATS what I get when I read of your adventures and adventures do NOT even come close to what you do! The Fact I drove my Brothers pickup to Dubuque near broke my heart BUT I was in attendance there with Friends and Fellow RIDERS and THATS what was IMPORTANT. Ross Finally got Phatter Ghurl sorted out and had near 900 miles coming back from his place VIA Albia Ia. I Know That FEELING of a RIDE clearing the mind. A mind flush if you will. I was a paid tourist as an over the road 18 wheeler jockey. But the sheer rigidity of hauling the load at times took the fun outa the equation. So keep doin what you do ther Bruce as us mere mortals don't seem to mind to much ridin with ya in spirit mostly! RIDE SAFE. Terry Cilley had THE Needed part to git Phatter Ghurl runnin again. THANKS Terry!

[DDT (12)]

Dennis,

As usual, you've captured an important, unexpected ingredient in the incredible overall 'ride experience'. Once we've tasted it for ourselves, we find ourselves easily relating to the stories and tales of other riders! Our imaginations and personal memories automatically 'fill in all the blanks' thereby personalizing each of our own interpretations of those tales.

We do indeed quite literally 'share' the experience with our conversation partners... You serve up many opportunities for that sort of delight yourself right here in this forum and in person. Thank you for all the 'trips' you've taken me on!

Gatherings of members of our unique 'family' are rich veins of 'ride ore' to mine and enjoy. I almost never actually go for a ride at those gatherings... I prefer instead to mix and mingle with the others there, and to savor and enjoy all the 'rides' we take together in our minds...

I'm glad you and Phatter Gurl are back in the wind... Hope to 'share' another ride with you soon...

DDT (12)