When I started taking the bus, I was most unimpressed with the idea. In the beginning I could not think of a single good reason why this would be something I would enjoy. When I had my own vehicle, I outright owned it, gas was relatively minimal and my insurance was giddily inexpensive, so money was not a good case. I mean…the cost of a bus pass was about $10 less than my gas and insurance was on a monthly basis. Humbled was I. Gone was my freedom, my independence, and an attribute.

Sigh.

One cold morning, I begrudgingly stepped on to the bus after only having to wait a minimal amount of time, and was greeted with a most friendly smile and a hug of warm air. Of course, in Utopia, this would have been enough to end my story, but Utopia it is not. Reality, it is. The sunshine and lollipops were not enough for me, and I did not yet feel the grand compensation. Now, I am not singing any kind of poor little rich girl song of any sort. There are wonderful things about taking the bus! I truly appreciate the (relative) cleanliness, modestly quick journey and the comfort of knowing Road Rage and I will never again date.

It is a wonder that so many of us just don’t know how great these public services are. Had I have known years ago what I know now, I think I would have always used public transport!

Aside from the initial, obvious benefits, there are long term benefits too. At the end of the tax season, a person can claim their public transport providing they have appropriate documentation. WHAT?! You say? I know – I did too. It is surprising to find out the good things the government does, when we are so used to hearing about the bad, but I know this made me feel pretty good. Check this out people!

Click here to view Canada Revenue Agency website