In the news today are some heartwarming stories that help to reaffirm one's faith in humanity.
The first story comes our of Idaho, members of BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse) attended the funeral of 6 year old Emilie Parker. Their bikes were adorned with pink and green ribbons, and they attended her funeral to ensure that the family could say goodbye uninterrupted.
The second story comes from Philadelphia where over 100 riders with the aide of firefighters and police brought Christmas presents to the children of a 32 year old mom who had been killed in a car crash in November. According to the article - "The motorcycle clubs decided to donate presents to the family as a group instead of holding their annual gift exchange between each chapter, said Bryan Elwell, the coordinator of the event and the president of the Bucks County Knights of the Inferno Motorcycle Club."
And again out of the US - bikers are stepping up to answer the call of the NRA to protect schools and kids across the US.
In South Carolina, Christmas mass is being celebrated in an old biker bar. According to the article:
"“That's part of what we're trying to do here is just make people feel comfortable, who maybe haven't felt comfortable in a church before,” said Branyon.
“It’s actually very welcoming to say look it doesn't matter who you are and what you've done, come as you are, and I think a space like this allows for that. It allows you to bring all your baggage,” said Pastor Fallaw.
So if you're still not sold on the biker bar church, Pastor Fallaw has a very simple question.
“Jesus turned water into wine and why not come and worship at a biker bar?” asked Pastor Fallaw."
The diversity of these stories tell me something about our community - something that is wonderful and whether or not you believe in God or you believe in some other higher power, that message is the same - LOVE, KINDNESS, GENEROSITY and EMPATHY are alive and well.
Being of service to your fellow man, stepping up when called upon, is a part of the biker culture. It always has been and it is wonderful to see the old school values of our community being embraced and demonstrated in so many ways.
As you open presents and share laughter with family and friends I ask you to remember those who are alone, those who have been shut in in hospitals and extended care homes and those who have lost someone they love. Spend a few moments of sober pondering on how good you have it and a few moments thanking your higher power for the love and warmth that surrounds you.
For those who are Christian I have a song that I want to share with you.
C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S
When I was but a youngster
Christmas meant one thing,
that I'd be getting lots of toys that day
I learned a whole lot different
when Mother sat me down
and taught me to spell 'Christmas' this way:
C is for the Christ child, born upon this day
H for herald angels in the night
R means our Redeemer
I means Israel
S is for the star that shone so bright
T is for three wise men, they who traveled
far
M is for the manger where He lay
A 's for all He stands for
S means Shepard's came
And that's why there's a Christmas day!
And that's why there's a Christmas day!
Music by Eddy Arnold
with lyrics by Jenny Lou Carson, 1949
Merry Christmas...let 2013 be the year of love, empathy and service to others...not just at Christmas, but all year long.
Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider
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