I just wanted to update those who would like to know about how my visit with Joe went last Thursday. I took the day off just to go see him and I'm very glad that I did.

First, thanks to all who read the post, honked their horns, replied to the posts with awesome ideas, and anyone else who "rode for Joe"!

I did exactly what mostof you suggested and picked up a guardian bell at the Temple Harley Davidson (love their painting on the outside wall and just had to share!):



Needless to say, anytime that I talked about Harleys it brought a lot of emotion and often tears to his eyes, but he was very appreciative of the posts and replies from all of you (I printed them out and read some of them to him). He LOVED the guardian bell and I was glad that I bought one for him (thanks to YOUR suggestions!).

I hung up the bell (I found one with an eagle on it which has always been his favorite symbol for harleys. He wore a big gold eagle around his neck on a gold chain for as long as I could remember!). I put it up on the wall next to his bed with a thumbtack and he loved it. I could tell he was real proud of it and when my wife was moving pictures around on his wall, he made sure that she didn't move it from where I put it.

I also took him some print outs of the new bikes that Harley has come out with and he wanted me to put that on the wall as well.

It was a very emotional experience and long adventure (with a 2 and 1 yr old along for the ride and an hour away from home it really makes it tough), but I am glad that I went to see him.

Before I left, I shook his hand and patted his shoulder and told him that he has a HUGE extended family of harley riders out there wishing him well , riding withhim in mindand also people praying for him. That really brought tears to his eyes, but I could tell it meant a lot to him.

In fact, out of everything that was said, I noticed it was the Harley comments that brought the biggest emotions from him. I told him that I would stop talking about them if he wanted, but he shook his head no, he didn't mind at all.I followed up with, "You see Joe, Harley is in your blood and that's something that will never go away!". He gave me a definite sign of agreement on that!

It sucks to see someone you care for in a situationlike that, but after pondering all of this on the long trip back home I realized, you know, that's life and there's nothing you can do about it! Instead, we should realize that these things can sneak up on anyone at anytime. The fact is, you can't get away from getting old. I have to admit that a couple of times while there I was wondering what would be better- to be in a situation like this (cannot move, talk, etc) or to just go over a cliff on your harley. That may be bad to say, but it did cross my mind!

Sorry guys and gals, again I'm back to preaching, "live life to the fullest - as if EVERY day could be your last!" Now more than ever I understand the symbolism and significance of that saying as well as the symbolism of the eagle that I always saw Joe wearing since I've known him.

That will be my mantra from now on and the eagle will definitely be my preferred symbol of choice for not only Harley's but life in the USA in general and what it means to be FREE, in moreways than one.

God bless all of you, Joe and people in the same predicament, and also the great United States of America.

Live to ride, ride to live.

 

Thanks for the update. Life can be measured in moments, no matter how brief.You have had a wonderful moment. I would be very blessed to have a friend like you. Carry on. Ride safe.

 

Thanks for sharing this, very moving.
It is what I hope someone would do for me if i was bed-ridden.

Thanks

 

Good to hear bro. I have been thinking about Joe ever since you posted the first thread about him and I was wondering if there was going to be an update. It is such an unfortunate situation, but as you said, it is part of life and there is nothing we can do about it. We just have to let the man upstairs take the situation into his own hands and take care of Joe. It sounds like he was full of tears of joy when you went to visit him though...what a true Harley fan. I'm sure he is as happy as he can bein the situation he is in right now because of you, you're a great friend man. I wish the best to Joe, youand your family in going through the tough times with him. I have honked for him, but next time I go ride, I will picture an eagle flyinghigh to represent his love, pride and dedication.

God bless you all and be safe...

 

Thanks for the update!
I will also carry the EAGLE theme with me as well!
Hope I have a friend as good as you!

 

Ionate , I don't know you , but it's my pleasure to know you ! I wish I had friends like you. Like you said , this is life and unfortunately it goes this way. Keep and cherish those memories of Joe--- noone can take them away. There will be days when you remember and when you do , look up and say "THANKS JOE ! " Thats what I do when I remember my Dad. It may bring a tear, but the smile it brings to you is worth it !!! All the best , Phil...

 

Thanks everyone. I've already purchased a couple of new harley shirts with eagles on them.

I really can't think of a better symbol of how I feel living in the United States of America.... especially when out riding my Harley.