I ride the Red Line every morning and I see it every single time. The train pulls in, the doors open, and a wall of people is already standing there, blocking anyone from getting off. They just stare at their phones while people have to push through. It happened again today at the Park Street stop and a lady with a stroller almost got stuck. This isn't just rude, it makes the whole process slower for everyone. If you just step back three feet, people can get off fast and then you can get on easy. It's simple logic but somehow it's a lost art. How hard is it to wait your turn and let people exit first?
We still sit in traffic just like cars. What's the point?
Back in the day, my morning train was full of people reading papers. Now, it's just a quiet car of folks staring at phones. Do you think commuting feels more lonely now?
I left my monthly bus pass at home and thought I was totally screwed. The driver just smiled and let me on anyway, which was a huge relief. When's the last time you got lucky with a transit worker?
I know everyone loves to put on headphones and zone out during their commute. But I decided to stop doing that last month. Now I pay attention to the conversations and sounds around me on the bus. It has helped me notice small things, like the driver's daily greetings. I even started talking to a fellow commuter about the weather. This has my rides feeling shorter and more connected. So I disagree with the idea that you need music or podcasts to enjoy the trip.
I used to stand by the door to get off fast. Now I sit at the back and avoid the crowd. What's your go-to seat?
The driver weaves around them like a video game, and people guess when we'll get there. It's WILD.
Such a simple act makes the whole ride better.
Lately, I keep hearing full-volume phone calls in what's supposed to be the silent zone on my morning train.
He kept pointing out every fire hydrant and asking loud questions about them. The driver played along and gave fake facts, which had me cracking up the whole way home.
I read on my phone when I ride the subway to pass the time. Now my neck feels sore and stiff when I arrive at work. What do you all do to avoid neck strain while commuting?
I ride the number 14 bus every day and the main stop near my apartment is always packed. Last week, I saw a regular rider get off a block early and walk down a side street. I followed them and found a smaller stop that the same bus uses before the crowded one. Now I walk that extra block and always get on without fighting for space. The driver even told me fewer people know about it, so it's rarely busy. This little hack has made my morning commute way more relaxed. Do you have any secret stops on your route?
Tbh, I used to feel bad and report stuff like that, but now I just shrug and move on with my day.
This woman on my train always takes the priority seat and stares at her phone, even when elderly folks get on. She makes a point to avoid eye contact, pretending not to notice them standing. I want to say something, but calling her out feels like causing a scene in a packed car. It's a small thing that bugs me every morning, and I'm not sure staying quiet is the right call.