
Once upon a time I had a conversation with a mate. He was opposed to bike riders “they don’t pay registration, they don’t pay attention to road rules, they don’t…..”
But what can I do? I thought to myself. Sure I could throw out some facts and figures but it would just end up in a heated debate. Or I could tie him up, take him to the end of the world and stone him to death. But then, it could get exhausting if I had to stone everyone who differed in opinion. Plus he is the type of guy you don’t mess with. So I let it go.
6 months later I invited him to join me at Greenups – Bike event. Knowing it really wasn’t his thing, I was stoked he’d came along. The night was more about a beer and a laugh with an old mate. But we walked in and the place was smashing with people. I was honestly shocked by the big turn out. The night went on and a few beers later I made a comment about the ‘conversation’ we once had. He turned and looked at me and said ” you know what, I don’t yell at bike riders anymore because when I look at them I think it might be you.” I couldn’t believe what I was hearing, but I was certainly moved.
In conclusion, perhaps just being yourself is all that’s required and change will come…slowly.




















4 responses so far ↓
1 Dottie // Sep 10, 2009 at 1:33 pm
I like this! As with any stereotype, the best antidote is meeting someone in the stereotyped group and discovering that they don’t fit the the mold. Then you can start seeing people as individuals. Good work.
2 Rosy - Sydney // Sep 10, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Thanks Dottie. Are you over in japan now?
3 Rosy - Sydney // Sep 10, 2009 at 10:09 pm
opps never mind the japan question. I got you confused with someone else. I just checked out your blog. Nice!
4 Greig // Sep 17, 2009 at 9:35 am
I can’t help but wonder if this mate was called Sean?
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