Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/1512449
Biker Bells: Fact or Fiction? These little bells, known in the motorcycling world as Gremlin Bells, Guardian Bells, or Spirit Bells, are a kind of "good luck" charm for motorcycle riders. The bell is said to protect riders during their travels, similar to how a pendant or image of St. Christopher, the patron saint of travelers, is often carried in vehicles to protect their occupants while on the road. As Christians, however, we know there is no such thing as "good luck" or "gremlins" attached to us. In fact, the Bible says, "The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." (Psalm 121:5-8) If, however, we want to get rid of the biker bell because of what some people say it is, we'll also need to get rid of mistletoe, four leaf clovers, horseshoes and rubbing a bald guy's head for good luck! For the Christian rider, a biker bell needs to be explained simply as a biker tradition and nothing more. If you're looking for spiritual protection, you might consider praying before each ride or even having your motorcycle "blessed" by a group of Christians. Then again, you might want to just slow down, wear a good helmet and not drink before riding! Nevertheless, (just for our information), what then does "tradition" say about the biker bell? Evidently there are "rules" that come with the bell. (Hmm? Didn't know there were rules!) 1.) The bell should not be bought by the user - in order to "work," it must be given to a rider from a loved one. According to the legend, a bell is "activated" by the gesture of good will when someone, especially another rider, gives it to a rider they care about as a gift. 2.) It should be attached to the lowest part of the frame. Because "gremlins" lurk on the roadways and "grab" onto bikes as they pass by, the low-hanging bell should be the first thing they contact, so that they are immediately captured by it. It should be attached securely – safety wire is sometimes used, but that can create rust and scratches, so a zip-tie is generally the preferred method. 3.) When a bike with a bell on it is sold, it should be removed. The Gremlin Bell is a gesture of kindness to a rider from someone who cares about them, so it should be kept by the intended recipient, and can be transferred to another bike. If someone sells a bike with a bell and they want the new rider to have it, they should still remove it, and give it to them face to face. 4.) A bell that is not given with intentional good will lose its "spirit- fighting mojo." If someone steals a Gremlin Bell, the gremlins go with it – and the bell will no longer work. The key to the bell's power is good will. If it is stolen, it loses its effect...and karma will take care of the rest! 5.) One Guardian Bell is all that a bike will need if all of the above rules are followed. Ride safe, and KNOW that you are loved! Or...(a) Keep your bike in good operating condition. (b) don't ride like an idiot! And (c) Say a prayer to the only one that can truly bless and protect you, Jesus!" a