While my last public transit post turned into a bit of a commie rant about social good, I realized that aside from the big picture, I kind of enjoy taking public transit just as a matter of course. When I’m coming from Humber it takes me at least an hour to get anywhere I want to go, so it’s definitely a significant chunk of time out of my day. There is no denying that cars are faster. But it’s a little bit sad that speed is such a driving (no pun intended) priority for everyone. Taking the bus is a chance to think, read a book, doodle, jot down rants in my sketchbook (as I’m doing now), have an earnest conversation with friends, or take a nap. There’s something to be said for time to yourself where the circumstances of your timing are completely out of your control. It’s liberating to know that since you can’t speed up the bus, there’s really no point in worrying about being late. Society tells you time is money, so when you get down to it, taking that extra time to chill out on the bus is something of a luxury, now isn’t it?

Also: talking to strangers can be really illuminating. I’ve always wondered why we feel so awkward about striking up a conversation for fear of bothering someone. Chances are you’ll never see them again, so if you offend them, big deal - they’ll get over it. And if you don’t offend them, there’s a chance you’ll meet an awesome person.

*Busyness as in being busy, not as in business. Though the etymology there is shockingly clear, and more than a little depressing when you think of it. But I’m running the risk of turning this into another pinko spiel, so we’ll end it here.