Compassion is the radicalism of our time

Say the word compassion out loud (or say it to yourself if you are reading this at a coffee shop, at work or any other place where people would give you that look for talking to yourself.)  Now, close your eyes and see what image comes to mind.   Did you picture His Holiness The Dalai Lama?

A true radical. Just look at him.

If you did, you're in good company.  George Lucas did too.  He was so taken aback by HH The Dalai Lama's compassion and wisdom that he based his most beloved character on the world's most beloved monk. And by world I mean everywhere but China.

Can't you see the resemblance? 

Don't believe me?  Look it up.  Or better yet, watch any documentary or YouTube clip of HH The Dalai Lama and listen to his vocal intonations.  Do the same thing with Yoda. Believe me then, you will.

Now repeat this exercise again, either with or without the speaking out loud and closing your eyes part (especially if you have already gotten that look from the uber creepy guy sitting at the other end of the coffee shop.)  What do you see now?  A group of bikers riding down the street?

No, bikers don't really ride in a row.  

If you answered a resounding yes,  congratulations! You are most likely already involved in the biker community in some way shape or form.  Go give yourself a cookie, a medal or a biscuit.  Your choice.

A cookie medal is the way to go.

Everyone else, prepare to be amazed.  You see, despite what the media says, most bikers aren't out to rape, kill and maim you.  Nor are they out to steal your babies and take them to Ireland (I'm looking at you, Sons of Anarchy!) What they are out to do is....wait for it.... help others.  And how do they do that, you ask?  It's simple.  They ride.

Bikers on a charity ride.  It's a common thing.

Sick children, pet adoptions, the homeless - you name, there's been a ride for it.  Most bikers don't really care who sponsors the ride.  If they can participate in the ride and give back to the community, they will.  In fact, there have been so many rides for so many charities where I live that I've lost count.  And I live in New York, a state that only has a 6-7 month riding season.  Just imagine how many rides there are in states like California, where every season is riding season.  

So next time you see a group of bikers riding down the street, don't give them the death stare.  Instead, simply smile in their direction. Odds are they just raised a crap load of money for someone in need.  And that is truly something worth smiling about.