
Well I got out my bike the other day
And down the road I did ride
It’s been a while I have to admit
And parts of my body cried.
Each bump became a torturous event
As standing I tried to avert
The soreness and pain that went along
With this whole personal hurt.
I’d forgotten that it can be like this
And so necessary to me,
Was acquiring the proper bicycle seat
And padded shorts can be key.
The dangers are many and wary I must be
As on the road I ride
Scan the horizon, look both ways,
And the rules by which I abide.
All there for my safety and comfort
So I can enjoy the journey
To reach my destination by bike
And not end up on a gurney.
The hard helmet looks kind of goofy to me
But speeds could cause me to fly
Down the road at the slightest mistake
Alas,” to wear, its good,” I sigh.
Someone is approaching from behind
You couldn’t see or hear
Check those side mirrors just in case
You didn’t know he was there.
So how do we think we can take to the path
Of life so unprepared?
It throws many obstacles, surprises and twists,
Without Him I would be scared.
Yet this journey too, has equipment needs
Instructed by our Father to take
Along with us on the journey
“They’re necessary, make no mistake.”
The helmet of salvation,
The belt of truth procure,
The breast-plate of righteousness in place
Is God’s instruction sure.
Without the sword of the spirit,
The gospel of peace on our feet,
And the shield of faith in our hands,
No armour would be complete.
Always praying in the spirit,
Is sure to be sound advice.
Guidance like this cannot fail us
If you’re not prepared, you’d better think twice.
For it’s no small battle we’re fighting
And endurance is the key
Pray, stay alert, and armoured
To attain the victory.
Next week RAGBRAI begins here in Iowa. For those who don’t know that’s: Registers Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa. Hence the inspiration for my poem today.
Lynn Radke July 19,2012