When I started this blog, I wanted to share my discoveries and adventures from riding the bus. My goal was to show the bright side of public transportation, hoping that more people in Nashville would appreciate the benefits. I wanted to share only the positive, thinking the not so positive perception is what most people have already.
But I'm appreciating that it is the people that ride the bus that makes the stories, the good, bad and indifferent, not just the positive experiences. So, I'm going to be sharing more stories that I find interesting in the hopes that you will, too. I don’t want to offend, but when dealing with the public, things are not always so pleasant.
Often on the bus everyone gets the chance to hear even the most private phone conversations of less discreet riders, whether you want to or not. This morning, one woman didn't mind everyone on the bus hearing about her drug treatment program. And she also didn't mind that we overheard her re-assuring her current lover about their contraceptive choices! Finally, she told him that she couldn't go into any further detail (thank goodness!) because there were children on the bus. Even the adults on the bus were embarrassed for her and collectively said a silent 'Thank you!' when she finally ended the phone conversation. I thought that her conversation would be a great public service announcement about the dangers of drug use; hopefully, the children and adults riding this morning took note.
Otherwise, the ride in was uneventful, and I actually made it to work earlier than my co-workers who drove and got caught in traffic. But, I bet their commute wasn't as eventful as mine! Enjoy your day.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
Balance
Today on my way into work, I ran into my friend who I mentioned in a post over a year ago (Sacrifices Parents Make). He came from Ethiopia and worked very hard to make sure his children received the very best education possible so they would have opportunities available to him that he didn't have. He has worked without complaint for many years, and now his children are all doing well at various universities.
This morning I saw him, and to my delight, he told me that he is now in school! He changed his work schedule to work nights so he can attend Vanderbilt University during the day. I felt like a proud parent myself! I am so excited for him, that now after making sure his children can pursue their dreams, he can now pursue his own. Behind his almond colored skin and pure white hair were bright sparkling eyes as he got on the bus with his laptop bag in one hand and his lunch bag in the other. I am so happy for him.
The lesson I learned on my very full bus today is that is never too late to pursue your goals, even when you've spent many years supporting or helping others. Take time out for yourself. Generosity is vital to a happy life, but a very wise man once said, 'Love your neighbor as you love yourself'; the balance of those two loves is what my friend has found. I'm working toward that balance, too.
This morning I saw him, and to my delight, he told me that he is now in school! He changed his work schedule to work nights so he can attend Vanderbilt University during the day. I felt like a proud parent myself! I am so excited for him, that now after making sure his children can pursue their dreams, he can now pursue his own. Behind his almond colored skin and pure white hair were bright sparkling eyes as he got on the bus with his laptop bag in one hand and his lunch bag in the other. I am so happy for him.
The lesson I learned on my very full bus today is that is never too late to pursue your goals, even when you've spent many years supporting or helping others. Take time out for yourself. Generosity is vital to a happy life, but a very wise man once said, 'Love your neighbor as you love yourself'; the balance of those two loves is what my friend has found. I'm working toward that balance, too.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Walk, Bike or Bus
I have found my self walking more lately than ever. I still love the freedom and convenience of riding the bus, but if the distance to travel is less than a mile or two, I just start out on foot. I've found that walking or biking takes my mind off current worries or concerns, gets the heart and blood pumping, and gets me to my destination often faster than by car or even bus.
Yesterday, while walking a couple of blocks from work to grab a bite to eat, I met the owner and director of sales at Green Fleet Messengers. Really nice guys who have taken the concept of biking as functional and enjoyable and turned it into a bike courier business. They have set up shop in a really cool spot in Edgehill Village and will soon also have for sale those practical, functional accessories those of us who rely on our bikes as transportation can use. I'm looking forward to checking out their merchandise once they get it set up. Check out their website or stop by the shop when in the area.
And last but not least, MTA in conjunction with Miller Brewing company provided free and extended service yesterday on Oct. 29 to encourage holiday celebrators to not drink and drive. I've posted in the past how nice it is after an evening on the town to have MTA as a 'designated driver'. Many people chose to call a cab, but with a little planning and even less money, the bus is another great alternative.
So, whether you choose to walk, bike, or bus as an alternative to driving your car, give either option a try if not long term, possibly just once or twice a week. You will be surprised at the amount of time and money you save, and the mental and physical health advantages you will enjoy. More tips and ideas coming your way next time. And I promise not to let so much time lag between postings.
Yesterday, while walking a couple of blocks from work to grab a bite to eat, I met the owner and director of sales at Green Fleet Messengers. Really nice guys who have taken the concept of biking as functional and enjoyable and turned it into a bike courier business. They have set up shop in a really cool spot in Edgehill Village and will soon also have for sale those practical, functional accessories those of us who rely on our bikes as transportation can use. I'm looking forward to checking out their merchandise once they get it set up. Check out their website or stop by the shop when in the area.
And last but not least, MTA in conjunction with Miller Brewing company provided free and extended service yesterday on Oct. 29 to encourage holiday celebrators to not drink and drive. I've posted in the past how nice it is after an evening on the town to have MTA as a 'designated driver'. Many people chose to call a cab, but with a little planning and even less money, the bus is another great alternative.
So, whether you choose to walk, bike, or bus as an alternative to driving your car, give either option a try if not long term, possibly just once or twice a week. You will be surprised at the amount of time and money you save, and the mental and physical health advantages you will enjoy. More tips and ideas coming your way next time. And I promise not to let so much time lag between postings.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
New Schedules and Other Exciting Stuff
I recently met my 'bus soul sister'. She had been sitting next to me in class at Belmont for about a month, and one day last week we realized that we have the bus in common. The amazing thing is that she is just as excited as I am about riding the bus! Imagine that. She started riding the bus recently for the same reasons as I did: her car broke down, she chose not to fix it and realized that she could take advantage of the Belmont benefit of free bus rides. What began out of necessity for her has become an adventure; sound familiar? We laughed and squealed like little girls do over new dolls about our mutual feelings of freedom and convenience the bus provides. We both marveled how our well meaning friends and family are baffled at our bravery, always offering us rides and rescue. We reminded each other to graciously accept and appreciate their kindness, despite the desire to stomp our feet and scream like toddlers, 'I can do it myself!'
My new friend then screamed with excitement and gratitude when I told her of the new bus schedules that began today that includes a new, frequent Belmont/West End route! This bus will pick up at Belmont and continue from Wedgewood/Blakemore to West End to downtown and back at least every hour everyday. My son and I rode it for the first time today (I couldn't get the driver to fib to me a little and let me think I was his first passenger). I felt like a new rider seeing the view on Blakemore from Hillsboro Rd. to West End for the first time ever. This extended West End route also includes regular service to and from Bellevue! It's hard for me to contain my excitement (can you tell?) and I would like to think my involvement in the market studies and this blog may have had a small part in bringing this plan to fruition.
Thank you to all who had a part in this development; there are many students and residents along these new routes who will greatly benefit from having convenient bus service. And people who previously didn't ride will hopefully give it a try. The more ridership increases, the more options become available, and I'm thrilled to see the progress public transportation in Nashville has made.
My new friend then screamed with excitement and gratitude when I told her of the new bus schedules that began today that includes a new, frequent Belmont/West End route! This bus will pick up at Belmont and continue from Wedgewood/Blakemore to West End to downtown and back at least every hour everyday. My son and I rode it for the first time today (I couldn't get the driver to fib to me a little and let me think I was his first passenger). I felt like a new rider seeing the view on Blakemore from Hillsboro Rd. to West End for the first time ever. This extended West End route also includes regular service to and from Bellevue! It's hard for me to contain my excitement (can you tell?) and I would like to think my involvement in the market studies and this blog may have had a small part in bringing this plan to fruition.
Thank you to all who had a part in this development; there are many students and residents along these new routes who will greatly benefit from having convenient bus service. And people who previously didn't ride will hopefully give it a try. The more ridership increases, the more options become available, and I'm thrilled to see the progress public transportation in Nashville has made.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Reflections
It seems like forever since I've posted, but it's only been a month. So many wonderful and sobering events have happened, too many to recount. So, I will suffice to say that I am still walking, biking or riding the bus to all of my destinations, with the exception of an occasional ride from a friend. Lately, I've been walking more when I have the opportunity; walking helps to clear my mind and lift my spirits and gets me closer to my destination. If I walk in the direction I'm heading, I can either walk the entire way, or catch the bus as it catches up with me. Either way, I feel as if I'm moving in the right direction and not just waiting; it works that way in life, too. We must keep moving toward our goals and aspirations, even if we make mistakes or take detours along the way, we need to keep moving and not waiting for someone or something to carry us.
In the time I've not posted, I've realized that this blog isn't just about being car-less or riding the bus. This journey started out as a way to help people see the alternatives to driving, but for me it has become so much more. Being without a car has helped me to realize my priorities and the ways I can navigate around challenges. It has also helped me to appreciate the value of simplicity and gratitude for the seemingly small things. I've realized that as my mother used to say, 'There's more than one way to skin a cat' meaning that with a little creativity and ingenuity, we can accomplish much more than originally thought.
So, here I am over a year without a car and I'm richer in many ways: financially I've saved money, I'm healthier because of walking and biking, and my mind is clear and focused on my priorities. For these things and more, I am grateful.
In the time I've not posted, I've realized that this blog isn't just about being car-less or riding the bus. This journey started out as a way to help people see the alternatives to driving, but for me it has become so much more. Being without a car has helped me to realize my priorities and the ways I can navigate around challenges. It has also helped me to appreciate the value of simplicity and gratitude for the seemingly small things. I've realized that as my mother used to say, 'There's more than one way to skin a cat' meaning that with a little creativity and ingenuity, we can accomplish much more than originally thought.
So, here I am over a year without a car and I'm richer in many ways: financially I've saved money, I'm healthier because of walking and biking, and my mind is clear and focused on my priorities. For these things and more, I am grateful.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Healthy Choices
I heard an interesting report on NPR this morning about the economy (of course) and its impact on health issues. The report lamented the sad state of health care options, especially for those in need or the unemployed. In these uncertain times, a simple and healthy lifestyle is more important than ever. Being aware and proactive about the way we use our time, money and resources, including what we eat and expose ourselves and environment to is crucial. And, contrary to popular belief, making conscious and healthy choices doesn't have to be expensive.
The irony of not thinking through our routines is highlighted by a humorous statement made by a dear coworker of mine. While a group of us were walking to a common destination a few blocks from work, he stated, 'No, I need to drive because I am going to work out afterwards.' Even he had to laugh at the contradiction in his statement; if he walked the few blocks and back with the rest of us, he would have had his workout completed and enjoyed the camaraderie on the way.
Everyone may not give up their car, or plant a garden, or compost, but we can all find little ways in our lives to be more healthy, more active and engaged in improving our lives and environment. Here in Nashville we have a wonderful Farmer's Market that features local goods at a low cost with easy accessibility (of course, close to bus routes). And Nashville's MTA has a new initiative to make healthy, affordable food even more accessible to low income residents by creating new routes that provide direct grocery store access in 'food desert' communities.
Most of us are trying to make choices that positively impact our lives and environment. If we continue to make the effort and set the pace, hopefully, we can make a difference in our lives and those of others.
The irony of not thinking through our routines is highlighted by a humorous statement made by a dear coworker of mine. While a group of us were walking to a common destination a few blocks from work, he stated, 'No, I need to drive because I am going to work out afterwards.' Even he had to laugh at the contradiction in his statement; if he walked the few blocks and back with the rest of us, he would have had his workout completed and enjoyed the camaraderie on the way.
Everyone may not give up their car, or plant a garden, or compost, but we can all find little ways in our lives to be more healthy, more active and engaged in improving our lives and environment. Here in Nashville we have a wonderful Farmer's Market that features local goods at a low cost with easy accessibility (of course, close to bus routes). And Nashville's MTA has a new initiative to make healthy, affordable food even more accessible to low income residents by creating new routes that provide direct grocery store access in 'food desert' communities.
Most of us are trying to make choices that positively impact our lives and environment. If we continue to make the effort and set the pace, hopefully, we can make a difference in our lives and those of others.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Reflections
It seems like forever since I've posted; it has been a busy couple of weeks with work and school. And I must admit, I've been a little discouraged. I posted this past spring that my husband purchased a car, without my knowledge or consent. I am still riding the bus or my bike to frequent destinations, but now my son, my little bus buddy confessed that he 'hates' riding the bus. What's happening to our little 'bus family'? I thought we were all having so much fun. Well, I guess I'm the only one that thinks not having to pay a car note, auto insurance and the ever rising cost of gasoline is cool! And the irony is the money I save from not having the above mentioned expenses pays for his private school tuition, the little brat! (smile)
Anyway, as I reminded him, I didn't start of riding the bus because I was on an environmental crusade or even considered the money we would save. I started riding out of convenience when we had just one car, and it kinda grew on me. Once I learned the schedule and the routes, I was challenged and thrilled that I could get just about anywhere in the city by myself and meet so many interesting people along the way. It dawned on me that while riding the bus was an adventure for me, it was a reality and the only option for many people, and they fared (no pun intended) just fine. Why not me? Now that I've been car-less for almost 2 years, I can't imagine having the hassle of paying for and maintaining a vehicle. The time may come, but I don't envision it.
Each time I have occasion to reach out and assist someone I've met on the bus, I ask myself, would I have had this chance if I were cruising along in my personal vehicle? Would I have cared, or known enough about this person's story to realize they are genuinely in need? Like the time a woman I've seen on the bus for 2 years who came to me tearfully because she didn't have the co-pay for her son's desperately needed doctor appointment the next day. Or the young woman I met today who lost her bus pass and just needed the $1.05 fare to get home. I can't save the world, and the little I help the environment by riding the bus won't fix the hole in the ozone layer. But if I can help or encourage someone I meet by riding the bus, it makes it all worthwhile. I'm sad that my family doesn't share my enthusiasm, but hopefully they will find ways of helping others that brings them as much satisfaction.
Anyway, as I reminded him, I didn't start of riding the bus because I was on an environmental crusade or even considered the money we would save. I started riding out of convenience when we had just one car, and it kinda grew on me. Once I learned the schedule and the routes, I was challenged and thrilled that I could get just about anywhere in the city by myself and meet so many interesting people along the way. It dawned on me that while riding the bus was an adventure for me, it was a reality and the only option for many people, and they fared (no pun intended) just fine. Why not me? Now that I've been car-less for almost 2 years, I can't imagine having the hassle of paying for and maintaining a vehicle. The time may come, but I don't envision it.
Each time I have occasion to reach out and assist someone I've met on the bus, I ask myself, would I have had this chance if I were cruising along in my personal vehicle? Would I have cared, or known enough about this person's story to realize they are genuinely in need? Like the time a woman I've seen on the bus for 2 years who came to me tearfully because she didn't have the co-pay for her son's desperately needed doctor appointment the next day. Or the young woman I met today who lost her bus pass and just needed the $1.05 fare to get home. I can't save the world, and the little I help the environment by riding the bus won't fix the hole in the ozone layer. But if I can help or encourage someone I meet by riding the bus, it makes it all worthwhile. I'm sad that my family doesn't share my enthusiasm, but hopefully they will find ways of helping others that brings them as much satisfaction.
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