Bus rides

Another fun aspect of my daily routine is the commute by bus. Because I live on the outskirts of Geneva, I get to ride the bus for at least 1 and a half hours each day (45min to school, 45min back to Veyrier). I have recently begun to spend that time chomping away on thick "polycopies" (Xeroxed articles for my History of Intl Systems class with Prof. Balachandran) and patiently waiting for either a smooth stretch of pavement or the next stop to underline certain phrases that I find especially delectable or highly nutritious. When I'm not absorbed in my word-feast, it is interesting to see all the different people on the bus, overhear their conversations (often in French, but a myriad of other languages as well), see how they interact, and observe the kindnesses shown (most often in deference to the elderly, handicapped, or mothers with children).

I got to hold a toddler who was adorable even when he picked his nose and presented his findings to his mom (and everyone else nearby!). I was able to lend an arm to help an old man get out of his seat, and helped a businessman pick up his things from off the floor when his briefcase fell open. A few days ago, I noticed a cell phone in a recently vacated seat next to me and barely caught the young man before he got off the bus to return it. That's how easy it is to be kind and helpful in such circumstances!

And so I think that this close proximity often brings out the best in people. Not that some folks don't try to remain aloof or apart (with their headphones, books, or distracted stares out the window), but very few can resist smiling at the wide-eyed baby next to them, or graciously offering their seat to the elderly lady who's just gotten on.