www.msf-usa.org/downloads/Motorist_Awareness_tips.pdf

We had out UCOA Meeting today up at Timeout Sports Bar, and we had a great turnout. Lots of people, and lots of sun. The meeting went well, but we kept it short so everyone could proceed directly into the Escondido MC Anniversary Party, where BBQ plates were being served, and later in the afternoon they were holding some traditional biker field games. My photos today are just of the meeting, you’ll have to check facebook for the later events. Just a bit too much heat for me.

As I write this, we have all just celebrated the 243rd anniversary of our national Independence Day, the day we commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence.We celebrate this day because it symbolizes the breaking away from oppression and tyranny. It represents freedom not only for our country, but for each of us as individuals.

In a similar way we see ourselves as independent when we ride our motorcycles, alone and out in the wind, experiencing the solitude of the road and the rumble of the machine. In control, and independent in a way that many cannot understand.

We talk about independent riders, and we were all independents at one time, but now we think of ourselves as club members, a like minded group of individuals that come together to enjoy brotherhood, motorcycling and comradery.

While we still think of ourselves, individually, as independent, we join a club because it gives us a connection to our brothers and sisters that goes beyond simply riding to our favorite restaurant or bar.

Our brotherhood gives us a sense of support in good times and bad. We joined a club or ride group or ministry because we wanted to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. We are stronger together.

You know, every organization has a leader, someone who encourages the members to stay on track. Guidelines are given so all members can work together in unity and peace. We don’t consider that our club’s rules or guidelines take away our freedoms because we understand their purpose. For me, and I pray for all of us, that leader is Jesus Christ. He guides out paths, He provides for our needs. He is someone we can truly trust.

In Matthew 11:29-30 Jesus said “Accept my guidance and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit, and you will find rest for your lives. The burden that I ask you to accept is easy; the load I give you to carry is light.”

You see, it’s all about trust. When we trust God with our lives, He will bring peace, contentment, joy and satisfaction to our lives.

I desire to Trust God in all things, how about you?

Wells Branch had our annual 4th of July parade today, and as usual it was a doozy! We kind of slept in this morning, and had a leisurely breakfast, then started to watch a movie. A 10 AM sharp, Debbie jumped out of her chair and declared “The Parade Is Starting!”. Pause movie, jump into come clothes, grab a camera, put a fresh battery in it, pile in the car, and drive like a maniac to the end of where the parade will go by so we can see it, find a parking place, find a parking place… Found one! Walk to a nice shady spot and shoot what I am sure you will agree, are some of my best 4th of July pictures ever!! I think everyone had a good time, and Debbie managed to scarf up a few pieces of candy that the kids missed that were thrown from the floats. She is just a big kid you know. Then it’s back home for some lunch. Phew! I’m exhausted! Time for a nap!

Round two is the Fireworks, that starts in a few hours.