Let's face reality: to embrace public transportation means to give up control. Give up control of your time. Give up control of many conveniences. Give up control of certain options.
When you opt for public transportation your schedule becomes, at the same time, rigid and fluid. You are at the mercy of the schedules of the trains and buses of the system, so your schedule is rigid. Sometimes the trains and buses don't run on time. So when the trains and buses are not on time, your schedule moves from rigid to fluid -- fluid because now you have to go with the schedule the system gives. But, is this any different than getting stuck in a traffic jam?
Likewise, certain conveniences of jumping in your vehicle and driving from point A to point B are sacrificed. Maybe the ability to avoid the inclement weather, or the need to physically walk any distances -- you go "door to door" when you're in your own car. But, you are still going to have to park your vehicle, and very rarely are you going to be able to park close enough where you don't have to walk. You're still going to be exposed to the elements.
Finally, maybe you don't have certain options that require the flexibility of having your own vehicle. Maybe you can't stay late at work -- you have to make the train schedule. Is this a bad thing? It's a built in reason to get out of work at a descent time. Maybe you don't have the option of meeting at that restaurant for dinner, or the bar for a drink. How about coordinating a linkup at a place near your commuting route?
I think these arguments are offered by folks who have never given public transportation a chance; never really stepped out of their comfort zones.
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Since many have experienced a first blast of winter weather for the season I thought I would take a moment and reflect on a weather related phenomenon.
What is it about crappy weather that makes people lose their minds? With the storm that blew through the mid-West and East Coast this week, there was a lot of questionable judgement on display.
You can rest assured that soon after it starts raining or snowing you are going to hear rescue sirens racing to the seen of an accident. It's as if people forget the rules of driving, or forget that they are driving.
Fashion sense usually takes a hit, as well. What makes a guy think that crazy Russian-style winter hats or Australian outback hats are remotely suitable for urban wear? I'm no fashion maven, but certain things just don't work.
When the weather gets poor, take a breath and evaluate your decisions. Slow down your driving speed, increase your following distance, and for God's sake scrutinize you fashion choices.
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