A Week Without My Car: What I Learned on the Bus
Introduction: A Mechanical Problem, A Human Opportunity
Last week, my car went to the mechanic. Nothing major—just one of those necessary repairs we tend to postpone until it’s no longer avoidable. I had two choices: get a replacement car or embrace the situation. I chose the second.
Instead of driving, I bought a weekly public transportation ticket—one for me and one for my youngest daughter. What started as a practical adjustment quickly turned into something much more meaningful.
The Numbers: Time and Cost
If we speak in pure efficiency, public transport wasn’t kind to me:
- Car: 10–15 minutes to school.
- Bus and train: 45–60 minutes, each way.
Financially? Public transport cost more than using the car. That’s not something most pro-environment policies want to highlight. While the long-term benefits of reducing emissions are unquestionable, for a single parent balancing budget and time, it raises honest concerns.
The Surprise: More Time, Not Less
But here’s the paradox: I gained time.
Not less, more.
Each day gave me about four extra hours on the move—two hours with my daughter, two hours on my own. And I made them count.
- With my daughter: we played games, made up silly stories, talked about school, and laughed without distraction.
- Alone: I read. I finally picked up and finished books I had abandoned months ago. It felt indulgent and purposeful all at once.
Rediscovering the Value of Shared Time
We often associate parenting with responsibility, structure, and exhaustion. But what I found on those trains and buses was presence.
No radio. No steering. No digital distractions. Just movement—and a chance to be, side by side.
Sometimes, simplicity creates connection.
Final Thought
It cost more money. It demanded more time.
But this small detour—this unexpected week—gave me memories I wouldn’t trade back for fuel savings.
When life slows you down, it may be offering something in return:
More space to connect. More silence to read. More laughter in motion.
I might go back to the car next week. But this one? I’ll carry it with me.