Getting Off The Bus

I had to do it.  I couldn't stand it any more.  I had to do whatever I could to get off the bus.  I know that riding the bus is the most economical, green, simplest, blah blah, whatever way to get to work.  I just couldn't do it anymore.  If anyone is thinking of riding the bus, let me give you a piece of advice  -  DONT' DO IT.

The vast majority of the time, the smells on the bus are overwhelming.  It really is amazing how the mixture of BO, alcohol, and pot can hang around and make you sick.  There were several days when I thought I would have to hold my breath for the entire 20 minute bus ride to and from work.  I used to sit as close to the front as possible.  This would ensure the cleanest air.  On those occasions when I had to sit in the middle or the back of the bus, literally, I thought I would need a gas mask.

Then there are the conversations.  I don't know where to start with these.  I can't remember all the conversations I've been forced to listen to.  I have heard that our little car show in my hometown, had over 5000 cars in it.  Of course, a quick count by myself, being at the show came out a lot closer to 500 than 5000.  I heard one person ordering a pizza a week in advance.  One person who was proud to tell everyone that he was travelling to Long Beach for the Special Olympics.  That conversation was followed by one in which he was trying to convince everyone that he was going to speak, not because of any handicap.

I wish I had documented every ride I took on the bus.  I would tell stories to my wife, and she would just shake her head.  I struggled through it for almost 2 years, but finally I am free.