A car I see now is a sign of power and authority.

It’s one of the few things in the world (especially in the city) that can give power and take away power—particularly when giving rides. A potential passenger is so dependent on the driver—having little to no control at all. The driver determines arrival and departure.

Generosity is shown by offering a ride to somewhere—whether it’s close or out of the way. But it can be easily taken away if suddenly a request is denied.

Here is generosity:

“No problem at all,” I say as I drive someone all the way back to the hills of Potrero.

Here is no generosity:

And as the negative feeling creeps in, I say, “No sorry, I don’t have room.”