The shifting stick came loose on the transmission and while repairing it I discovered a cable hookup at the top of the lever on the transmission side. The cable was broken and went up into the engine compartment. Can someone tell me what this cable is for and what it does? Is it safe to drive the car with the cable disconnected? Thanks for the help

 

I think it is the cable for the shifter that runs down to the tranny. Is it a heavy cable or a wire 's type? If a wire then it's for the reverse lights, maybe? Well at least it is someplace to start?