Why do people drive SUVs?

[Gregorian]

209. You've got me rethinking this. There are two approaches to a better country.

I watched the first stage of the Tour de France today. But not before riding my daily 20 miles through the forest. As I watched the Belgian countryside from the aerial view, and saw the crowds on the side of the road encouraging the peloton, I realized that there is something artistic about the Europeans that we do not have in America. One of the churches was from the 11th century. I can't even imagine what it must have been like to live in 1050 in the Belgian country villages. The playful way that the farmers cut their grass, with the intention of being caught on camera by the helicopter cameras during the Tour. There is some kind of sentiment that subtlety is more important than being forceful. I've always said it is the result of going slower. And in fact, as I write this I realize that I am offended by the speed of which Americans are moving.

Having said that, one way of making this a better place is through personal choice. I happen to be one of those who designed my life that way. I'm kind of like a European who was misplaced in the wrong country. Almost 60, and single. I live to ride my bike. I work as little as possible. I get in a car once every 7 days, and only to go shopping. But that's not the way it is going to happen, even if I am saddened that it isn't the case.

But what you are making me realize is that this is a top down solution. And that, as pathetic as it seems, we need a leader to teach the country limits. Of course the only ones who would listen are liberals, if I may say so. But that infrastructure would change everything. And that would span politics. Everyone would be on a bike. What people don't realize is that the happiest societies are the ones who are not in cars. The smells, breeze, heart rate, sounds, friendship. The benefits are manifold. But right now, to hear me, most people would consider it a neurosis. What we need is what you pointed out.

Our troops and our money could come home and build such a thing. That's what Obama's New Deal should be, I believe.