Fasting and Celibacy Not Required

He's smiling, because he knows that loin cloths are actually very comfortable.

I’m no Gandhi.

I like to think that I do things to benefit someone else, to protect the environment, or for the greater good, but when it comes right down to it, I make most of my choices because they’re good for me. I like the feeling of virtue that comes with composting kitchen scraps. I like the scavenger hunt rush that comes with shopping second-hand. I like the health benefits that come with not eating meat.

Similarly, being car-free is good for me in myriad ways:

1. I feel sexy.
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again: Being car-free is sexy.

2. I don’t have to pay for car insurance.
I also don’t have to pay for gas, oil changes, or air fresheners. O the savings!

3. I get a more even tan.
When I’m walking or biking, the sun shines on both of my shoulders, instead of just burning my non-driving arm. There’s no windshield between me and the world.

4. I don’t get stiff necks staring up to decode parking signs.
Is it after 6 p.m. AND not a holiday AND not street-cleaning week AND state congress is not in session? What do I care?

5. I can have more than one drink.
At happy hour, I enjoy another round with friends and leave the clear-vision and fine-motor-skills work to my bus driver.

How has car-free-ness (full- or part-time) been good for you?

Car-freely,
Amy