2018 has been a year of reflection and of loss. Reaching that midlife chapter has been revealing and simply humbling. Seeing your children reach new chapters in their lives while at the same time seeing your parents and close family slowly fade away. Reflecting on life, the good and bad , is an inevitable activity this time of year. Loss does , after all, come in waves.
As the year ends, there will be “in memorial” reals on news broadcasts and entertainment shows, they will include someone that so naturally was able to put words to life and simplicity .
Anthony Bourdain died in June of 2018 at the young age of 61 , the result of suicide. An unfortunate and untimely next page in his book.
Anthony Bourdain was a fan of food, life, creative, and real living, and of motorcycles. Listening to him put words to his travels and experiences will be missed by many. There was a soothing effect that his raw descriptions carried. Life , simple and complex, is life.
What is the connection to motorcycle life? Why post on him here?
Bourdain was a modern humanist. Putting words to the amazingly real people and places all around us. Food, or more accurately, those that specialized in it, is scattered with creative artists. Much like the motorcycle world. Its no mystery why he was also drawn to the individuality and creativity of bikes and custom bikes. Within the food world, chefs stand out for their creativity and expression. The same is true with motorcycles and builders. What better form of self expression, freedom, and exploration?
As I wrap up my 2018, I can relate with the sentiment that was often conveyed by Bourdain. That life is happening all around us and in spite of us. Take time to enjoy and identify .
Keep riding.
If you need help this holiday season, get help . Family, close friends, or CALL .
National Suicide Prevention Line:
Call 1-800-273-8255