Intersection Stories: Riding Through Life and Change

Every intersection story has a unique tale. Here are three of my personal encounters that shaped my journey, both as a rider and as a witness, reflecting on the importance of awareness, safety, and community.

Intersection of Activism and Change

It's not every day you see a traffic intersection come alive with people coming together for a cause they care about. Recently, I witnessed this during a protest rally for Black Lives Matter. This event gathered a diverse crowd, reinforcing the message that change cannot be achieved in isolation. It was heartening to see so many people from different backgrounds unify under a common goal. Motorcycle riding can be both exhilarating and vulnerable, making it a fitting vehicle to join such movements.

The Thrilling yet Scary Ride Through the Intersection

On one occasion, I was riding my 1973 Jensen SP, one of only 13 in left-hand drive, late at night. I had just completed some body shop fixes and was eager to show off the car in perfect condition. At a red light, I began to cross when a car approaching from the opposite direction made a left turn. Instead of a smooth ride through the intersection, my experienced hand managed to navigate through it in a single wheel jump. True, it looked like a stunt to onlookers, but in that moment, I was more concerned about my safety and the safety of the other driver. This incident had a profound impact, as it highlighted the importance of situational awareness and respect for others on the road.

The Unexpected Collision

Another incident involved a collision with a car pulled out from a side street, which resulted in both cars being totaled. While initially paperwork and replacement car seemed the only way to resolve this, it thwarted the sense of adventure and freedom that riding a motorcycle provides. Regardless of the outcome, this experience emphasized the significant role that seatbelts and defensive driving play in ensuring safety on the road.

The Sudden Injection of Reality

Intersection stories sometimes come with a dark side. When I was just six, I sat shotgun with my mom as she ran some errands. We were waiting at an intersection when a motorcycle was struck by a moving van. The rider went under the truck, and the helmet rolled away with the rider’s head still in it. My mother tried to shield my eyes from the gruesome detail, but it was too late. This early encounter with the reality of accidents and the fragility of life has stayed with me, teaching me to appreciate every ride and every intersection.

Key Takeaways

Safety: Always wear protective gear and adhere to traffic rules. Awareness: Be conscious of your surroundings and those around you on the road. Community: Embrace and support collective movements that promote social change.

Through these intersection stories, we learn not only about the hazards and joys of riding a motorcycle but also about the principles of responsibility, community, and resilience. Whether advocating for social change or simply enjoying the thrill of the ride, each intersection can be a point of learning and transformation.