Walking to Work
Sunday, April 6th 2008 @ 1:04 PM (not yet rated)
I can't help but thinking of old movies where everyone walks everywhere. When cars pass, then beep the horn and wave to the pedestrians. The walkers pass and say "hi" to each other, and all is well in Mayberry. Fast forward to Sudbury, 2008.
Each day that I walk to work, (Willis/Marlboro Rd area to Mill Village) I pass an average of 6 people on the sidewalks. The first person I pass is usually my neighbor who greets me with a smile and a short friendly comment. Then I pass two other women who do their best to ignore me, despite the fact that I make friendly eye-contact with them for at least 10 feet prior to the pass. Why? Is it my all black "Bo in da hood" outfit? My bike gloves? Or is some technique women who walk in pairs are taught?
As I approach the Nixon school area, I pass a couple more mom's walking their kids to school. Almost daily I say "hello" but rarely do I get a hello back... at best, I get a very nervous smile.
Along the way, I usually pass 1-2 police cars who almost always slow down and stare me down... like because I am walking, I am up to no good.
I hope to set the record straight here. I am a very nice guy that means no one any harm. I am a law abiding citizen who has no intent of committing any crimes. I did not get my license taken away for DUI -- I walk because I enjoy it. Perhaps I should trade in my black pants and jacket for something less intimidating, like a light blue velvet jumpsuit? Suggestions welcome.