I passed five other bike commuters on my ride to work this morning. Unlike when you are cocooned within a car, riding your bike gives you and opportunity to interact with your fellow human beings. All five of us said hello and one of the riders and I chatted briefly while waiting for a light to change.
Fresh air, exercise, fitness, and better health are often cited as smart reasons to bike commute. Let’s add interaction with your fellow human beings as another benefit of smart commuting by bike, foot, carpool, vanpool, or transit. During Smart Commute Week 2011 (Sept. 19-23), take the opportunity to enjoy all the benefits of alternative transportation options to riding alone in a car.
Who knows? You might even be visited by cupid while smart commuting - my oldest son and his wife were, while carpooling together with fellow U of M students a few summers back. Ain’t love grand!
Rick Brown
