To the drivers of Portland (and probably pedestrians too), I am the reason everyone hates bicyclists, and I apologize. I have been told that the bicycle is the most efficient machine, but that might not be true with me. I promise I am not making a special effort to get in your way. I'm sorry for being terrible with hand signals, turning and changing lanes. I'm sorry for my spindly little legs that make you wait an extra 5 seconds to go at traffic lights. Accidentally turning down one-way streets, stopping suddenly, crowding left lanes, running red lights, taking spills on busy streets — I repent. This really is as fast as I go. When I see you shaking your heads or making angry faces, I would like to hang my head in shame, but then I would crash and further complicate things. I bought a light and use a helmet now. I am learning, have patience.