"Why don't you come with me little girl, on a magic carpet ride." -- Steppenwolf

The bus kneels before me and I climb aboard, settling into a plush velvet purple seat. I gently recline and close my eyes as we leave the commuter lot. My mind is a whirl -- Can this really be it? I just sit in my seat, close my eyes, and I'll arrive at work, pulse intact?  

Easing into the bus lane of the hateful toll road, curiosity gets the better of me and I open my eyes. With the smug smile of new-found wisdom, I stare at the red snake of brake lights slithering s-l-o-w-l-y into the distance. We whizz by the pale, tired faces of those who've submitted to the reality of the early morning clog...and the angry, wild faces of those still searching in vain for a way forward. 

Look up! This bus is more than a rage-inducing obstacle at a traffic light. This is a magic carpet ride!