Me and the RTD

As I stand here on the corner of Broadway and Baseline, awaiting the 204 to come around and take me down to Pearl Street, I notice within myself a sense of self-confidence and independence. 

I don't know what it is about taking public transportation. Whether it be bus, subway, lightrail, or train, I find myself standing a little taller. 

You would think the opposite, right? Having a car and being able to drive yourself seems like the logical mode of independent transportation, but oddly enough, I don't feel that way. 

Perhaps it is because I've grown up always driving places and this is something new that I get to figure out on my own. Or, perhaps it has something to do with participating as a true citizen of the city. The proud, local status and privilege of being able to say, "I have a local bus pass!" 

I know it's a silly thing to be proud of, but I enjoy it for many reasons other than having that local swagger. I have come to realize and appreciate the beauty of being a passenger. I think we all need that sometimes - being a passenger. When was the last time you just rode in a vehicle? Not with a driver you knew, but with strangers or others you may not talk to? Last took a ride where you could just sit with yourself and your thoughts and just think about life? It's nice. You should try it sometime. Sit back and enjoy the ride.