Is anyone else out there?

Riding the subway I usually have experiences that make me wonder - does anyone else out there share the same experiences that I do and react in a similar manner?

Well today I got that answer, enter big guy reading his newspaper. I usually stress that mannerisms and consideration is the key to a decent commute. The empty train allowed "big newspaper man" to just relax and enjoy his early morning news paper for all it was worth. Licking his fingers to help turn each page carefully, he sighed right before he flipped each page. Seeing how pleasant and calm he appeared it made even me relaxed to see someone without that usual "I am not a morning person" look stamped on their forehead.

Here comes a couple looking for a cozy seat to sit. Ignoring the mass of empty space available, they made the not so clever decision to snuggle up with big newspaperman. Now as I do my (hold on a second, that’s not ok) look, big newspaperman immediately flashed a look of his own, and to me it said "are you guys crazy?" clearly indicating that he was not down with the snuggle posse. 

As his look met with mine, I smiled inside, thinking I've just found a commutable relative that is fully aware of the regulations of the proximity rule. Without another expression big newspaperman speedily relocated to an empty seat and continued to divulge in his newspaperism. His deep annoyance towards the cuddle couple led me to observe his every move and expression.

A few minutes sooner than later a female passenger dares to sneeze twice, and not cover her face, I guess she thought she was pretty enough to pull that off! My eyes were locked unto big newspaper man as I noticed he had pulled the newspaper really close to his face and instantly gave her the death stare, I guess she was cute but not cute enough, he probably even held his breath for a second, I know that’s probably what I would do. All this man wanted was to read his paper and get to his destination in peace and what did he get couple that tried to snuggle, and possibly cold or the flu, but I guess he will find out within the next two weeks.

I Was always described as being sensitive, however big newspaper man has taught me that I am not alone in my sensitive commute, he also find passengers standing or sitting too close to him in an empty train strange. He also does not want to share his air with an inconsiderate sneezing commuter, not that anyone else would want that, but his reactions were priceless to say the least and to that I say WELCOME big newspaper man we are one people.

Commutable safety tip:  Let closing doors close, sticking your hand or bag in the doors does not guarantee that you will get in.

SsPowell.