The Missing Rider

It’s really easy to take things for granted. You go to bed at night fully expecting to get up in the morning and live another day. You part ways with a friend and never pause to consider the what ifs of life. We land in a routine and just expect things to continue like they always have until one day…they don’t.

Many years ago I met Jim through another friend/work associate. I was sent to the airport in Toronto to pick up Jim and bring him back to the office. I was promised that I’d not be disappointed. I wasn’t. Jim wasn’t even in the car yet and the jokes, laughter and insanity had already started. Automatically I liked this guy…there was something really special here. A lively, dynamic, fun, and energetic person who simply seemed to get it. Life. Jim and I clicked right from the start.

Jim was from Kansas and I’m up in Toronto. A fair distance apart but close enough that we kept up over the years. We’d meet and various industry trade shows and share laughs and stories of motorcycles. Jim has several bikes and would often send me photos of his Ducati Monster, BMW cruiser and some vintage stuff too. Jim’s enthusiasm for motorcycles was much like his enthusiasm for everything else. Nothing was done by halfs.

Jim and I often talked of meeting up and taking a motorbike trip somewhere. A trip with Jim would be fun beyond words. I looked forward to this like a child looks forward to Christmas. I couldn’t wait.

Jim passed away yesterday in hospice in Kansas. So sudden. The idea that I’ll never hear that laugh, see the life in those eyes, bask the warmth of his smile or listen to his stories is difficult to comprehend. I only knew Jim briefly but the blessing was all mine. Jim was a man I wish I could be. A loving husband a great Dad and a great friend. He had it all.

I’ll have to do the trip we talked about alone now. I suspect however that knowing Jim he’ll be there in some way looking for the funny and finding it.

Take time and appreciate those you love. You just never know when or if you’ll see them again.

When I ride…I think I’ll let Jim lead.