As most local cyclists would know, every weekend there is fresh smashed glass on the road in Pitt Street, Loftus.
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Most riders get angry and make threats about what they would like to do to the perpetrators, which is quite understandable.
However, I think that a bit of compassion is what is really needed here.
Think about it.
These people are obviously not quite right in the head.
Whereas we operate normally in society, they are fringe dwellers.
When we get a puncture on their broken glass, we just stop and fix it, then continue riding and return home to our families.
All we've done is have 10 minutes of inconvenience.
They, on the other hand, must have a miserable existence, and after drunkenly smashing a few bottles, probably return home to their mums, even though they are adults (well, physically anyway).
While we have jobs, loved ones and friends, they most likely spend their days in a care type environment, or reporting to their parole officer.
While we enjoy life, they appear to be consumed with an illogical hatred for cyclists.
So basically, these bottle-smashers must be a couple of stubbies short of a six-pack, and as such, are deserving of our compassion and sympathy, not our ire.
Next time you see smashed glass on the road, smile, and be thankful that unlike the perpetrators, we are both enjoying our lives and have all our faculties.
If you know who these poor souls are, would you please read this letter to them.
William Hick, Engadine
