Confession of a Commuter

I figured that I'd post something lighthearted for my first post on this site.

I admit, I have spent the last four years of my life driving long distance to my job. Does it suck? Sure does. There are many things I could do during the time it takes for me to drive from my small town, to Boston, Massachusetts (and vice versa).

Why do I do it? For starters, I do not like where I live. Yet, I stay here because the rent is affordable and the apartment is all mine. I've invested a lot in this apartment and I'd like make it worth my investment before I move away. I've been able to save a lot of money, I've become an avid traveler and concertgoer.

Every day I share the road with other commuters who happen to do just what I'm doing, and every day I drive home, I become claustrophobic as I get closer to home. It's dark in New Hampshire, the street lights are sporadic if not non-existent, and everything is so far away. It's so spread out and you can't walk anywhere; hell I don't feel comfortable going for a morning run in my own neighborhood as there are no sidewalks. Drivers drive down the road too fast and carelessly, and I can't trust them.

Sure, it's busier and more expensive in Boston, but the vibe is electric and energizing. I'm more motivated in a city, then in a small town. I go for walks on my lunch break, and I walk everywhere! After work, I can go for a short or long run in the city, and if my schedule allows, I can take a yoga class or exercise in the gym down in the basement.

There's always something to do, something to see and somewhere to eat. Sometimes, my coworkers and I will walk to a bar for an after work cocktail, and if lucky, we can take an Uber, Lyft, or a train ride home, something I don't get to do in my own neighborhood.

Though I haven't been to a Red Sox game this season, Fenway Park is right smack in the city, which used to be walking distance from my apartment. I miss that lifestyle, honestly but that's a blog post for another day.

I work in the North End, near TD Garden where the Boston Bruins and Celtics play. I'm not a fan of either yet, but I can appreciate a good game of hockey with the right company.

The stress of commuting is tense, but bearable. I tend to use this time to find inner peace. I listen to really good music, sometimes sing along; and sometimes I'll listen to a book on audio. There are times when I'll record myself plotting out story scenes, and I use this time to gather my thoughts on my next story.

My best advice on a successful daily commute is to listen to good music, a podcast, or a story on audio.

I also advise to dig deep inside yourself and to not let the traffic control your thoughts. Sure, I've rolled my eyes, I've said a few swears and I think some drivers should lose their license, but it's important to dig deep inside and seek inner peace. It's a daily practice and I'm better at it each day.

I'm not a coffee junkie, and I don't drink or eat anything while I'm driving. That's dangerous and stupid, as is texting and talking on the phone while driving. I watch my speed, but I catch myself speeding every now and then. Who doesn't?

I find it strange that people would advise I find another job near the home I don't like to live in; as opposed to encourage finding another apartment. If I do find another job, it'll be in Boston, or a neighboring city. I can't imagine leaving this city behind for a small town in New Hampshire.

In the end, commuting to Boston is worth it and I won't change it.