I was walking through one of the side streets of Oxford recently on my way back from a meeting and noticed the motorbikes that you can see in the picture. And whilst there is nothing unusual about motorbikes it did make me smile that in a city renown for the number of bicycles that here was a row of the motorised variety – in fact most of them were Harley Davidson’s, so powerful machines too. All of the motorbikes that were parked up had Germany registration plates, and as they were parked up next to one of the colleges it looked like they were visitors there.
All of the motorbikes were in pristine condition and clean.
It reminded me of a time when I was in Switzerland having lunch at a quiet hotel that overlooked a lake. On this distant day two motorbikes arrived with two people on each – when they got off, and started to take off their leathers, it was clear they were there for lunch too. In fact I felt a little under dressed in an open neck shirt and jacket, the gentleman took off his leather jacket to reveal a crisp shirt and a bow tie. His lady pillion rider removed her helmet and shook out long locks of distinguished greying hair. By the time all four were disrobed from their motorcycle gear, they looked a very elegant quartet. That event also reminded me of a different place and another story that can be savoured at a later date.
Now where is this going? Quite simply it was the unfamiliar, in familiar settings, that got my mind working. Motor bikes in a city of bicycles.
For a few moments I was back at some past scene, revisiting some past memory that was stored away. I am sure when I walk back down this side road, past Brasenose College, I will notice the motorbikes are no longer there, and remember the day when they were.
So a new reference point for me and I hope a reminder that sometimes this chain reaction of thoughts needs topping up for future treasured thoughts to pop back into mind. It will also remind me of the amazing meeting I had just had in Oxford, and some new steps that need to be taken.
A simple question – when was the last time you added a new link into your chain of coincidences? I am sure one will appear soon……you just need to notice and record.
My best wishes,
Peter
