Thousands of people around the world will hop on their bikes tomorrow and assemble at a designated spot in their communities.Through this global phenomenon  — coordinated on the last Friday of every month  — enough bikers form a “critical mass” which allows them to move through busy streets that would normally not be safe for a single cyclist. In this manner the group “takes back the streets.” They are able to pass leisurely through an otherwise busy city. Their visibility provides safety, and their size allows them to pass through red lights (through a process called “corking”).When I first arrived at the University bell tower for the ride last month, my two friends and I disputed whether or not the event was “organized.” Ultimately, I came to the conclusion the best way to describe the event is “disorganized organization.”Critical Mass is not about protest  — really, it’s not about anything. There are no stated goals. There is no agenda.There is no message because there is no organization  — it’s little more than a time and a place.Instead, participants each give the event their own meaning. Some probably want to promote healthy activity in Baton Rouge. Some might be angry at our nation’s addiction to oil. Others are just there to party.On last month’s ride, we went from the Memorial Tower to Whole Foods. For me, the ride was fun, but also educational  — I realized the route to Whole Foods is easily doable (especially without the threat of traffic).Though there is no leader for Critical Mass, the group usually comes to a consensus on which route it will take based on the suggestion of the most vocal participants.The group has no rules — not that there would be anyone to enforce them. Instead, it is suggested participants should just be normal, responsible members of a community. It’s a good idea to have lights on your ride, and yes, wearing a helmet is preferred.The thrill of the ride is ultimately what brings these people together. As a single unit riding through the town, a sense of camaraderie is developed. These days it seems as though we have all grown distant from one another. Incidentally, this probably has a lot to do with the fact we are constantly shuffling around in our own private metal boxes, minimizing the number of personal encounters we have with people (besides the angry look into the eyes of the other “idiots” on the road).Critical Mass isn’t just a good time — it’s a chance to observe and engage in a community. Because of its decentralized nature and lack of political message, Critical Mass brings together a wide group of people without alienating any individuals. This results in an intriguing image  — a motley crew on wheels. The people who take part in Critical Mass clearly hail from much different parts of our society. The hipsters ride with the frat boys, and everyone gets along (but through the course of the ride you’ll realize few people easily fall into these stereotypes).Instead, Critical Mass is more of a sentiment  — community can still accomplish things in our society.Tomorrow will be a very special Critical Mass. Not only does it kick off “LSU Bike Week,” but it coincides with the eve of Halloween. Riders will be in full costume as they ride the streets of Baton Rouge. There is no predestined route, but word on the street is it will involve touring the graveyards of Baton Rouge. As with every Critical Mass, the fun starts at 5:30 p.m. at the Memorial Tower on campus.See you there.Mark Macmurdo is a 22-year-old history and economics senior from Baton Rouge. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_mmacmurdo.—-Contact Mark Macmurdo at [email protected]