15 December 2007
Things people say, No. 3
Posted by todd under: Things people say .
DO YOU WANT A RIDE HOME?
Response: This one usually comes from a well-meaning colleague at the end of a night shift. It’s really dark. Maybe it’s raining, or even snowing(!). They don’t want me to get wet, cold, or run over.
I appreciate the concern. But I have lights (a headlight and at least two taillights), an electric-yellow jacket, and all the gear I need to stay dry.
I can remember accepting a ride maybe five times over 6+ years of commuting — once or twice because it was raining cats and dogs and I had left the raingear at home; a time or two because of ice; and a couple of times to talk with the driver during the drive (plus he had a truck — it was very easy to toss the bike in the back).
Otherwise, the answer has been, and will continue to be: “No, thanks!”
In fact, I almost ALWAYS wear one (while riding a bike anyway). (On the other hand, if YOU don't want to wear a helmet, I have no problem with it.) I don't remember what happened on this particular day. Fortunately for all of us it makes for a less-nerdly picture. My exceptionally talented professional photographer friend Charles Bertram took this photo.
I asked my 6-year-old son, Caleb, an avid bicyclist and artist, to draw a bike for me. I think he did a great job!
