I live in LA. For 4 weeks I have not started my car. I live in Mar Vista, and work in a studio in nearby Culver City. I am currently doing work that takes me downtown from time to time. Im single, not in a relationship, and unfortunately my son lives in Colorado. (I try to see him as much as I can). Living above car in LA today is not something everyone can do. I am lucky. I have a folding bike. I take the bus. I ride the train. Sometimes I take Lyft and Uber. And I carshare at times. When the bus approaches and its full with 2 bikes on the front, I quickly fold mine up and take it inside the bus. Sometimes out to dinner with a friend, she offers to drive me hoam, so I fold it up and put it in the trunk. Nice to be bi-modal and ride your bike and yet be flexible. Each morning I ride a mile to the studio. I ride to the bank, to coffee, to friends, mostly in Santa Monica Westside LA. The bus stop a block from me connects me to downtown, Westwood, as well as Santa Monica promenade. My pants have begun slipping off. Im losing weight already. Ive never felt better. Do I sell my car? I am going to. LAs mobility options grid is thin with few services today. (Only going to get better). With a car I can go to more places faster. But I am sitting on my ass, buying gasoline from assholes, and not riding my bike. On my bike I meet people. People smile at me. With my car my world is larger, but of less quality. I can ultimately get anywhere. But I dont feel as good. The car speaks of freedom. I dont have to wait for the bus. But I read funny things on my phone while I wait for the bus. I love going through the day and never wearing a seatbelt. The car is expensive and says it will take me anywhere. But the West LA traffic is hideous. And did I say I am walking and biking everyday, that my body is taking a new shape, I stand strong, I have new muscles. I feel great. Better than ever. I will trade the so called freedom of car ownership in to live in a smaller city where I feel wonderful. You might call me and ask me to go somewhere and my answer might shock you; I Cant. I know we are told we need to do it all. Knot me. I have little interest in doing it all. I live in LA and I am selling my car. And I have never felt better.
Posted on: Mon, 19 May 2014 03:19:37 +0000
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