Watching Louie

Watching-LouieThe article “Watching Louie” by Bud Miller/Zen Motorcyclist was originally published on the “RoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel” magazine website on 1/06/2013.

Tonight I’m watching an episode of Louie, one of my favorite shows. In a few episodes he can be seen riding a Triumph Bonneville. This is a holiday episode in which Louie buys his daughter the doll she wanted, only to discover that its eyes had become dislodged and were missing. A hilarious montage follows that features hacksaws, drills, super glue, and a distraught father who breaks down in tears at the thought of disappointing his daughter.

It got me to thinking about my daughter Devon and the lengths I would go to give her all I am capable of giving her. As parents we’ll do most anything and everything for our kids. My Devon was a gymnast and ice skater, and she grew up being encouraged and supported whenever she showed interest in a new area.

It’s what parents do for kids; but for me, I’ve always thought that it was equally important, and maybe even critically so, that a child get to see his or her parents pursue their own goals and interests. While the safety and security of the child is essential, that parent also has a life to live and an example to set that shows you can achieve whatever it is you put your mind too—that it’s never too late to follow your dreams whatever they may be.

When I started riding I saw the looks on the faces of family—you know the look—the one that says it’s reckless, irresponsible and dangerous. I’ve never thought that way though. I had been rock climbing for years prior and was used to examining risk and preparation. Sure it’d be reckless and irresponsible to ride beyond my skill set, to not wear safety gear, to not maintain the bike properly, or to drink and ride. Devon always saw the counter example though. She and I are planning on taking a creative writing class together this spring. I enjoy considering new challenges, setting new goals, and thinking of where I will be and what I’ll be doing in the future. I’m sure it’ll always be so with me and motorcycling has played a large part in that.

If you get the chance to see the Louie episode titled “New Years Eve” I guarantee you the first 10 minutes will have you laughing hysterically, and the last 10 will make you think and smile.

1 Comment

  1. molson

    Brough Superior moto GP2. Very interesting this. (Hope your move has gone OK.)
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJB2P8IFutI#t=719

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