From Poky, a guy planning to hike the Pacific Crest Trail this summer:

I’m struck by the fact that when I was on the trail I was open to all interactions from people, but in traffic I am unhappy with everyone around me or at least annoyed by the crowded conditions. Almost like I’m suffocating. Maybe that’s just all the excess carbon dioxide and diesel particles.

I see what he means. Driving a car is like being in your own little house on wheels. It’s got doors, windows, a heater. You feel safe in there, but you’re also separate. And going too fast to appreciate the view, except when you’re stopped, and then all you can think of is moving again. I’m something of a car geek — I gaze longingly at the Porsches and Beemers the people with real jobs drive around here — but I’m happy with my Ford Focus because it gets me where I need to be, which most of the time is someplace where cars don’t go.