I started, yesterday, in Toronto, with a five minute shuttle ride to the airport. Working my way through customs reminded me of a story that Robert Williams, one of my English teachers at Gaston College told, about when he was in the army and stationed in Berlin. He said that the Soviet soldiers who guarded the border were all specially selected. they were all at least 6’4″ and they all looked mean. It was that same distinction between the very young and smiling Canadian customs people and the U.S. officials I encountered coming back into my country. I am not complaining! I just think that it is very sad that we seem unable to solve the problems that are forcing us to act the way that we do. We have some pretty smart people. We should be able to creatively solve this thing.
The flight was uneventful and short, between Toronto and La Guardia. Then things got interesting. I rented a Suzuki station wagon and then commenced to drive to my next gig in Delaware, which took me right through the middle of Manhattan. I learned three things during this experience that I shall not forget for many miles.
GPS doesn’t work in Manhattan. The buildings are too tall.
Things finally settle down when you realize that you should forget everything, and concentrate on just getting through the next five feet.
Double-parked cars are your friend — when you have to change lanes.h
Oh yes! One more thing. At all costs — ignore the horns…
In reality, it was not so bad. But I understand now, why my brother sold his car, right after moving to Manhattan.
$9 worth — about the cost of three gallons of fuel…
