I meant to catch an early train today, to get in an hour ahead of my normal time to get ahead on some work. I just had a new tire put on, brakes tightened, and a new chain installed at the shop.

The bike feels a little rough as ride away from the house, and several blocks later the chain breaks and falls onto the street. I pull over and start looking for it, and see it on the street. As I'm walking towards it, a car pulls up to a red light and stops right on top of it.

It's 6am, it's dark, and there's nobody else around. I walk over and try to wave the car back. The driver is having none of this; she looks confused and ignores me. I walk around to her window, meaning to explain. She won't roll down the window, and looks steadfastly ahead of her, looking scared. With a start, I realize she thinks I'm trying to carjack her or rob her or something. I back off, amused but sad.

When the light turns, she pulls off I retrieve the chain and walk home the few blocks. I hope she looked in her rear-view mirror and saw I was simply retrieving something off the street.

I'm wondering how many would-be carjackers or muggers wear multiple blinkies, helmet lights, and bright yellow safety jackets.