On Snowflake: An Ode

October 16, 2009 by maureen.ulrich.

 Snowflake’s my Sportster

He’s small and he’s white

He’s the perfect motorcycle

If your experience is light.

 

To handle at Sportster

At slow speeds is tough

And I must attest that

My right turns are rough.

 

Snowflake’s seen the sky

Lying on his right flank

While I try to reassure

The tellers from the bank.

 

Still Snowflake has mastered

Hills that are steep

And stopping quickly to avoid

A flock of stunned sheep.

 

To ride him is a glory

When the bugs stay away

And the wind is behind me

On a hot summer day.

 

Sometimes it feels

Like he’s not there at all

Just the purr of his motor

And the highway’s soft call.

 

This summer in Wyoming

There was some consternation

When Snowflake was issued

A traffic citation.

 

“Too fast,” said the State Trooper

And I certainly agreed.

Those 1200 CC’s

Are a temptation to speed.

 

Snowflake’s quick, He’s the boss

 Oh the mindless joy he can bring,

But I’m sad to report

Snowflake’s parked till next spring

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On 2009

January 1, 2009 by maureen.ulrich.

Okay, I have an idea. It’s not a revolutionary idea. It’s just a thought on this blustery January 1st morning. You know that plaque that everyone has in their house these days — the one that says “Live, Laugh, Love”? Let’s add another L for 2009. The most important L of all — when combined with the other three. I’m not saying that living, laughing, and loving aren’t important. They certainly are. But by themselves, they sounds a bit shallow, don’t they? How about — learning?  Yes, learning. Learning something about ourselves — seeing our flaws, digesting constructive criticism and acting accordingly. Learning about our friends and family members.  Learning about our world.  Which makes me wonder — if next year, I could somehow arrange it that the service companies who gives us food and clothing and other items to show their appreciation for using their businesses — could just give us cash? Then we in turn could dig a well in an African village or something like that.  Our oldest daughter gave us the gift of a donation of “living water” this year. It feels so good to know she is on that path.   Oh, that brings me to another L.   Listening.  A wise person once said, “You never learn anything by listening to yourself talk.”  And no one loves to talk more than I do, but lately I have been trying to be a better listener. To ask more questions, and actually listen to the answers. I think it’s called active listening — when you’re not just waiting for the other person to take a breath so you can start right in. Anyway, just some thoughts on the new year.  I hope it’s as good for you as 2008 was for me and my family. Happy New Year, and God bless you all with love, laughter, life, and — a few other L’s.   

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