[dc-critmass-list] dc-critmass-list Digest, Vol 63, Issue 5

[Steve Higgins]

I have to agree with pro-politeness side of this discussion. I've not been able to ride the CM but have commuted by bike since the '80s, with many of those years in the notoriously bike-unfriendly city of Boston. I hate to say it but on occasion I've responded pretty badly to people in cars, with the only effect being shouting matches at best and threats of being run over at worst. When I respond with a smile and politeness one of two things happen: either the driver is totally disarmed, stammers and whatever real or imagined infraction I committed is discussed in a rational manner, or, no effect at all and the driver steams off in a huff. In the first case there is one more driver who sees cyclists in a better light, and in the second who can tell - maybe, maybe not. In either case I come off as civilized at least.

And, if one of your reasons for riding is for the planet's environment, why not extend that to our social environment as well? Its free, and every little bit actually does help.

BTW, I once got a warning from a cop in Cambridge MA for running a red light, and the only reason I avoided a fine was because I was polite.

Steve Higgins









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