I imagine that you’re all familiar with that famous line from the classic 1983 movie, A Christmas Story. There are some hilarious scenes in this fabulous flick (not to be confused with the name of one of the co-stars).
I suspect that the singing of Christmas carols in the Chinese restaurant would be deemed offensive today and probably get cut from the final version.
One of my favorites is when the fire department has to come rescue Chuc Hunter after he stuck his tongue to the frozen primary of a ‘39 Knucklehead. Wait… I may have some of that wrong.
Anyway, all that young Ralphie really wants, is to get a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. Don’t forget, it does have a compass on the stock. Thanks to Marc, and Cathy & Mohican, I actually have two of these beauties. Fortunately, I also still have two eyes.
He asks his parents, risks his life to tell a department store Santa, and even makes it the subject of his theme for English class to gain support for his cause.
In the end, persistence pays off. Ralphie gets his rifle. Even though he has to wear a pink bunny suit along the journey. Ultimately, he does shoot his eye out (sort of). Sorry, I guess I should have warned you with a “spoiler alert” in case you haven't seen this iconic staple during its marathon telecast each year.
They have a “reboot” of sorts this year, as Ralphie has grown up and wants to make Christmas special for his kids like it was for him.
So what does any of this have to do with motorcycling? Funny you should ask, because I was wondering the same thing.
Right off the start, let’s address the new movie (which I’ve not yet seen as of this writing). Rarely (with a few exceptions) does a sequel live up to the original. This confirms my theory that there are no new ideas. Movie re-makes, song covers, reviving old TV shows, retro styling of everything… there are no new ideas.
A lesson that we can certainly learn from young Ralphie is something we already know pretty well, which is never give up. Everyone tells him, “You’ll shoot your eye out!’, making his dream seem impossible. But he is tenacious, relentless, refusing to take no for an answer. This reminds me of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s (MRF) motto, “Remain Vigilant”.
In the world of Motorcyclists’ Rights Organizations (MRO), we have never backed away from a fight. We have embarked upon many battles that were considered unwinnable. Through fortitude, passion, knowledge and good old hard work, we have accomplished countless objectives, that few thought were achievable.
We, as motorcyclists, have a number of challenges approaching (or already here). Autonomous vehicles and the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), profiling of riders, access to appropriate fuel and the extinction of internal combustion engines altogether, are only some of the issues threatening our lifestyle.
Our journeys are seldom easy. Frequently, we will encounter roadblocks and even an occasional flat tire. Just remember not to yell “fudge” if you drop the lug nuts, or you’ll end up with a mouth full of Lifebouy soap.
Ride Safe,
Ride Free,
Happy Holidays,
Jay
