Lock Up.

Halfway to my doc appointment this morning I realized I had forgotten my bike lock. That's one potential issue with riding lots of different bikes and changing bags all the time. Was planning to buy a new U-lock for the road bike, anyway, so I figured I'd just park Jameson at the doc's office.

Encountered a very condescending lobby security man who kept trying to explain to me that bikes are usually locked up outside either to a bike rack or to a pole somewhere. Uh... thanks for the advice? He didn't seem to understand that I do, in fact, speak English. I asked him if I could keep it on the lobby office and come get it in 15 mins. He said no. I said I couldn't leave it outside because I forgot my lock. He said I should lock it outside. I said I didn't have a lock. This continued for several more rounds.

Finally told him I was bringing the bike up to the office and would be happy to leave if my doctor or her office had an issue with it. I also informed him that he could contact security to forcefully remove me from the premises if this was not acceptable. He later came into the office while I was waiting and told the secretary that I wasn't allowed to have the bike there (which we had covered in great detail downstairs). The secretary relayed the message but basically said "whatever" and let me go to my appointment.

I could understand if I was brining a giant muddy bike into a building. Or, if I was damaging the building somehow or offending somebody. Or, if I was being difficult and crazy and refused to lock up my bike. I simply did not have my lock! The man offered no other good solution other than continually telling me I wasn't allowed to have it in the building and making inappropriate inquiries as to where I work and what my doctor's appointment was about.

I was frustrated on two levels. First, that he didn't even listen to me and kept speaking to me like I was an ESL student. Second, that somebody making a healthy life choice and using an environmentally sound mode of transportation should be treated like some sort of terrorist.

I now have the proper lock for Jameson. But not because the evil man made me come to my senses. For those of you who receive hate for strange little transgressions associated with biking? Keep fighting for your right to party.