This piece appeared in the New York Sun on December 22, 2005:
With the New York City transit strike in its third day, and no end in sight, how can we find a silver lining to the inconvenience of not having subways and busses to get around the city? All it takes is a look out my window to see people walking to work. I see elementary-school children who used to take the MTA bus less than a mile (giving them enough time to stuff themselves with donuts or bagels) now walking briskly to school. Maybe the cold weather, rather than fitness, is the motivating factor for the spring in their step, but it counts just the same.
I too benefited from a walk to work the other day. And yesterday, because I had less time for a walk, I commuted via rollerblade. If the strike continues, maybe I'll take my bicycle to work. Now that's cross-training! Not everyone is fortunate enough to live within a couple miles of the office, as I do, but the point should not be lost: It's not a bad idea to squeeze some heart-healthy activity into a harried day instead of just swiping a MetroCard before and after work.
Walking to work during a mass-transit strike is not only a form of transportation and exercise, but its a great way to show those responsible for the work stoppage, whomever you blame, how irrepressible New Yorkers are. Whether during the horrors of September 11, 2001, the 2003 blackout, or an illegal strike, New Yorkers find a way.
If you agree, take it upon yourself -- wherever you live -- to again show solidarity with New Yorkers, as so many people did after 9/11. Whether you can walk to work, put on a helmet and bike to the office, or just park on the far side of the parking lot, you will reap the health benefits and might even save some money in the bargain.
If you join me, I might just be inspired to keep on walking and thereby let both sides in the current squabble know what I think of the situation -- even after the strike is resolved.
Mr. Stier is an associate director of the American Council on Science and Health (www.ACSH.org, HealthFactsAndFears.com).
See also: ACSH's suggestions on how to Resolve to Be Healthy in 2006.
