I may have reached "peak urbanist" today.
I was taking photos of apartments while riding a MARTA bus home from lunch and I randomly captured a cyclist who was rolling along beside us.
Just before this moment, I was reading a Guardian article called 'How extreme car dependency is driving Americans to unhappiness' -- here's a quote, regarding findings of a new study:
"Having to drive for more than 50% of the time for out-of-home activities is linked to a decrease in life satisfaction...Extreme car dependence comes at a cost, to the point that the downsides outweigh the benefits."
There's nothing wrong with using cars for some trips, but we shouldn't be completely reliant upon them. Too often, our urbanized environments are designed entirely around cars to the detriment of other options, forcing car-dependency on people, and creating hostile environments for anyone who can't drive.
I don't have much reason to feel sorry for myself in regard to my neurological issues, which prevent me from driving (or from riding a bike). I'm lucky to have sidewalks, buses, and walkable places with various destinations nearby.
But I do feel sorry for others who are trapped in places without those features. Too many are, and that should be changed.
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