We are all aware that yesterday was April 15th or Income Tax Day. For many of us this brought about a great deal of stress.
The common definition of tax is “a compulsory contribution to state revenue”. This is what we often think about when we hear the word tax. Tax can also be defined as “a strain or heavy demand”. Some terms we use everyday to describe the taxes upon us are burden, weight, load, or demand.
Stress on the other hand can be defined as “a state of mental or emotional stress or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding consequences”.
Stress is something that weighs upon you and your health, whereas a tax is something taken from you. Both can have adverse consequences.
So what does this have to do with motorcycles? Glad you asked. I believe, and so many of us that ride agree, that “Wind Therapy” is the answer to the taxes and stresses in our lives.
When we ride our motorcycles we are connected with nature. Our experiences are magnified by allowing our five senses to experience everything simultaneously. We also have both the freedom and control, that other forms of transportation do not offer. The sensations a motorcycle rider experiences is indescribable. From the natural elements of temperature changes, bright and shady areas, aromas, sights and sounds missed inside a vehicle, the lean and the feel of the road, to the resulting sensations of their chosen brand of motorcycle.
When we ride we are able to disconnect from the stresses and taxes in our lives. We are able to re-set our perspectives and to gain balance by becoming whole again as an individual. We are again living life and thriving. We are no longer merely existing in the drudgery of the mundane.
What does taxes, stress and riding motorcycles have to do with Moto-Tec Products? For me it goes back in time to when I was in the Army.
When you are in the military certain expectations are placed upon how “tight” (attention to detail) your personal space and uniform are maintained. I was fortunate to have had prior experience from being a Army brat. But I also embraced the need to keep my gear tight. I learned to shine and polish my boots and brass. I learned to starch and press my uniform. To make my rack and keep locker to standard.
Learning how to do these things was necessary, but wanting to and following through with the individuals tasks was mandatory. For me I made it a challenge to not only meet, but exceed my superior’s expectations. I also learned that by maintaining my stuff, it required less time overall.
I was able to continue to maintain my gear because of perspective. While I was cleaning and shining, pressing and starching, I imagined the dirt, scuffs, wrinkles and such were all the problems in my life. While I was doing the task at hand, I was working on, working through, or overcoming situations or circumstances in my life.
When I ride my motorcycle I am able to re-set my perspective. When I am done with the ride, I clean and polish my bike. I imagine all that road dirt and grime are the issues in my life I “will” and have overcome.
See you on “The Open Road”
Moto-Tec Tim