Nerds That Geek Documentary Review – ‘To Myself, With Love: The Bessie Stringfield Story’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

There is a prevailing belief in our world, that in order to truly impact change and inspire others, we first… have to be in the public eye, and then we must inspire incredible change in society. Which will allow for us to be remembered for generations on end, and praised and believed in after our passing, and it makes sense as to why we hold to that. For history is made up of amazing individuals that did indeed stand tall before us and before adversity, and pushed the world to be more, to be better, to change with the times. And these are the folks we read about in the history books, and quote and speak of often, because they truly made the world a better place, and the vast majority of people out there… would love to do the same.
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But what’s fascinating about this belief, is that it is woefully incorrect in so many ways. Because we don’t have to be famous to make an impact in this life. Nor do we need to change laws and speak to seas of crowds to inspire people to be better, to be more. We simply need… to be good people. Good people with conviction that opt to chip away at barriers and do the right thing always because it is the right thing to do. For that too, can take people to task and leave them wondering if they’re doing enough in this life or if they can be part of something more, and if they create impact upon others, and for proof that this is the case… then look no further than the powerful new documentary, To Myself, With Love: The Bessie Stringfield Story.

Which is a story about a woman named Bessie Stringfield. Who people still continue to honor, long after her passing. For she inspired people to live life to the fullest and to live without fear, all because… she chose to rode motorcycles. Which is a statement that some will raise an eyebrow over. Because how the heck can someone riding a motorcycle inspire others? But that’s the thing, the details matter in her story. For Bessie was an African American, and in the 1930s… she wanted to ride bikes. Which in that era, was not something an African American did. But she didn’t care, she wanted to live free and enjoy the world, and she did. In fact, she rode across America, multiple times even, and was a civilian rider in the Second World War and she became an icon. Since she faced amazing challenges in chasing her passion… and she changed the world in doing so.

For this documentary correctly points out, that being bold and decisive in wanting to ride as far the bike could take her… broke down walls and was daring in its own right. Because the wanton racism that existed then (and sadly, still exists today), always put her at risk. In fact, the documentary recounts a few close calls she had with white men that didn’t care for her carefree nature and hobby. But she faced that bravely, always, and that is inspiring, since it motivates one to stand against that kind of hate. Oh, and she of course… motivated people to get on motorcycles and enjoy their wonder. Which is no small feat either, since they have their own stigmas about them. But there are groups now that ride in her name, and so many wish to a live a life like hers. One full of bravery and strength, and that makes her a hero for certain, one that has inspired unique change in so many.

But even that, doesn’t speak to someone that is ‘everyday’ of sorts. Because she had an audience, she had and has followers and people speak of her often. But thankfully, the documentary takes the time to explore Bessie’s life and times. So that we see, the regular person behind the icon. For we learn about her marriages, her losses and her wins, and her upbringing. All of which informs us, she experienced ups and downs like the rest of us and she was indeed a good soul that would always do the right thing. Which showcases, an everyday woman that found a way to be extraordinary and did her best to really get her message of bravery out. Not through speeches, or television interviews. But through her actions and interactions, and that… is what makes this story so beautiful and inspiring.

Because if Bessie can turn everyday decisions and desires into dreams for others and inspire others to be brave and be more through her raw passion… so, can we. So, what then is stopping us… from doing what so many of us want to do? Which is to make the world a little better, to leave behind a legacy, and that’s why Bessie’s story needs to be told and why this documentary needs to be seen. For it is a true hero origin story, one that lifts your spirits up and reminds you of our limitless potential when we apply ourselves to what matters to us in this life, and what happens when we are good and kind to one another. And that is the kind of inspiration we need right now, and it is magical to know that one woman’s passion for motorcycles, can provide us with what we need.

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