Would you Or do you?
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 674
Likes: 0
From: Minnesota
RE: Would you Or do you?
This is interesting because about 22 years ago I also completely did the same. All new friends, spouse, family, state etc.
Only once every few years I think what if...but then I realize how fortunate I am TODAY.
Only once every few years I think what if...but then I realize how fortunate I am TODAY.
Road Master
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 764
Likes: 0
RE: Would you Or do you?
Funny thing, back when I was younger,(I'm only 37 now)I would drink anything, fight anyone, and I've done enough drugs to kill lab monkey's.Now I have a good job, nice things, an awesome wife and finally some self respect.I still like my beer but I haven't touched anything illegal in over 13 years.Some of my old "crew" have follwed the same path, others have not.Now and then I'll run into some of my old buddies at a party or a bar or something and they know I don't mess with the drugs and unless someones swinging at me or messing with my girl I'm just not going to hit them.Words don't **** me off that much anymore.The ones who are still acting like they did 10-15 years ago know I value the things I have and have enough repect for me not to try to drag me back into that mess.Real friends will respect you and your priorties.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,599
Likes: 1
From:
RE: Would you Or do you?
I haven't found myself in dire straights since I parted ways with a rough crew.
Fortunately for me, some of them have grown up as well and we still get together from time to time to discuss life. Of course, now we're all the black sheep of the original group, but it's fine that way. When you're younger the "brotherhood" (whatever type it might be) seems like the strongest force in the world. The family, friends, mutual respect, love etc.
As you age and become invested in a true family life (wife, kids, mortgage, etc) you find that while those things were necessary then, they fall into a different catagory now. I'll still put a little risk out there for those guys that have stuck together with me, but they wouldn't be expecting it or asking for it. That makes all the difference in the world.
Be your own man.
Fortunately for me, some of them have grown up as well and we still get together from time to time to discuss life. Of course, now we're all the black sheep of the original group, but it's fine that way. When you're younger the "brotherhood" (whatever type it might be) seems like the strongest force in the world. The family, friends, mutual respect, love etc.
As you age and become invested in a true family life (wife, kids, mortgage, etc) you find that while those things were necessary then, they fall into a different catagory now. I'll still put a little risk out there for those guys that have stuck together with me, but they wouldn't be expecting it or asking for it. That makes all the difference in the world.
Be your own man.
Road Captain
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 683
Likes: 0
From: Golden, Colorado
RE: Would you Or do you?
Your first obligation has to be your family. I know many groups say the group comes first, before everything and all persons. That has to change when you decide to marry and bring another life into this world, then that life is the primary responsiblity. You can continue with the group as long as they allow you to take a lesser role, where you can fulfill your primary responsibility. The bigger guy has to be bigger in brains as well as brawn, with brains come wisdom. If the group won't let you exercise your wisdom and fulfill your primary responsibility, then it may be time to put the group into the past. it's a hard choice to make. It's a tough thing to do.
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Cruiser
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 226
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Would you Or do you?
My Family is #1 and always will be! It seems like a lot of these new comers don't have enough muscle to back there big mouths up and they look for the stronger more established person to back them up! I know they need to defend themselves and learn lessons but they look @ it as "you don't want to see a fellow brother take the punishment" truth be told if the want to run it they should back it up! But then when they mention so and so things settle down. which is nice & respectful for me but how abought taking care of yourselves? The youth is not like the youth of yesterday. I am trying not to worry about it and have backed away from it and will continue to do so!!! I take care of myself and my family first...The only time you see me acting like a 1% now is when someone threatens my life or my families!
I greatly appreciate all your thoughts and comments it actually makes me feel better to hear what y'all have to say on the subject....especially thoughs that have been there!!! Sometimes you just need the confidence of someone who has experienced it!
I greatly appreciate all your thoughts and comments it actually makes me feel better to hear what y'all have to say on the subject....especially thoughs that have been there!!! Sometimes you just need the confidence of someone who has experienced it!
Elite HDF Member
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 4,929
Likes: 8
RE: Would you Or do you?
Always be careful how you use the term "friend". We all have a lot of acquittance's. We can hang with them, enjoy their company, would do just about anything for them....Then there are our real .. true friends .. These are the people that are much the same but very different. Your true freinds and family would fall into this category. They are the ones that love you, unequivably and unconditionally as you do them... Not just because you hang with them. Prioritize what you will do for those you love.
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