Today I observed natural selection at work. I saw an endangered species showing that its chances of survival were slim. As I approached a very busy intersection I saw a man on a bicycle riding on the sidewalk. He was hard to miss with his colorful helmet and yellow reflective vest. He was one of the cyclists that we see so much of in Southern California complete with spandex cycling pants and water bottle.
The real reason I noticed him was that I was planning on turning right at the corner and he was riding a bicycle on the sidewalk toward that corner. I had no desire to scratch my bumper with yuppie paint. As I approached the signal turned yellow. The cyclist sped up. I said to myself, “He isn’t going to run the red light.” I was wrong. He went for it. He made it because other drivers were watching for crazy people, after all, this is Southern California and there was a Whole Foods Market in sight.
This was a big intersection. Divided going both ways. Four lanes of traffic. Controlled left turn lanes. Right turn lanes. He still went for it.
Today he made it. Tomorrow may be another result. It could be genetic. I would guess that he votes for the progressive candidates, has a low carbon footprint and loves anything organic. In some cases natural selection works. He may not live to pass on his traits.
Drive safely. The life you save may not be yours.
homo unius libri
Oh I liked the last bit!
ReplyDeleteKeep in mind that being from the southern hemisphere you have a different slant on things.
ReplyDeleteGrace and peace.