The same people who used to cross the street when they saw leather vests now waved at the morning motorcycle escorts. Local businesses started offering free coffee to the riders. The school officially adopted the Widows and Orphans MC as partners in their safety education program.
But the biggest change was in Tommy. Six months after that first escorted walk, he told me he didn’t need the helmet anymore.
We still have the helmet, displayed in a place of honor in our living room. The bikers still come, though less frequently now, just checking in, making sure we’re okay. Tommy is seven now, riding his bicycle with training wheels while a parade of motorcycles follows at two miles per hour, teaching him about road safety, about brotherhood, about the family you choose.
Last week, Tommy asked Bear when he could learn to ride a real motorcycle.
“When you’re ready, little warrior,” Bear said. “And we’ll all be there to teach you, just like your dad would have wanted.”
“All of you?” Tommy asked, looking at the dozen bikers in our yard for Sunday barbecue.
“Every last one of us,” Bear confirmed. “That’s what family does.”
Tommy nodded solemnly, then ran off to play, his father’s legacy of brotherhood protecting him with every step.Continue reading…
