Wow, that was something. I could never believe that MTA people actually would strike. I perceive public transportation in New York as the blood of an organism - i did not believe NY can function one day without it. The pictures from 1980 - last time MTA striked looked horrifying.
It happened anyways, and smattered my belief in being able to control universe throught thoughts :) The negotiations were going on a couple of days before, but of course the actual shutdown happened on the second day of my final exams (three in total). School decided to postpone the exams for a week or longer. Which is bad, because I wanted to travel to Montana.
One teacher had mercy with us and told us if we can make it to school she will be there and we can take the exam. And I had to make a decision, an expensive one - to take a cab or a lenghty one - to walk. I walked, 50 blocks. It was actually kind of nice. I had a feeling of shared pain and joy with tons of people that also decided to walk this morning. I am sure, people walking the Brooklyn Bridge felt the same way.
Next day the exam was cancelled but I had to go to an interview, which was only 30 blocks away. I decided to take a cab, which progressed at a speed of 2 blocks per 10 minutes. This was unexceptable for 15 dollars a ride and I walked the rest of the way.
All over, I am extremely impressed with people from New York - I barely heard any complaining or blaming. Everyone, including waiters from delis, secretaries and managing directors from investment banks went to work. For people from Queens and Brooklyn this meant up to 2-4 hours in freezing cold or up to $50-80. By the way, the mayor, Mike Bloomberg made a point of walking the Brooklyn Bridge every morning with everyone. Nice gesture.
Hat off, New Yorkers!
