Thursday Traffic | 11 March

Another Thursday, another Stau (pronounced stow; German for traffic jam). After last week's disappointment with Alice in Wonderland, I will never talk movies for Thursday Traffic again. Instead, I will stick to my observations and reflections.

As spring creeps up on us, we are having an abundance of daylight. Since Daylight Saving Time doesn't hit until Sunday, I have been awakened by bright sunlight every morning this week. It's kind of relaxing and I have been in a good mood as a result. Perhaps others in the area have had the same morning and have suddenly decided to ride the bus. I notice that in winter, people seem to favor their own cars. They shy away from public transportation like the plague. However, the moment the weather gets warmer, public transportation becomes extremely attractive. The result? Crowds. Don't forget that DC is a huge tourist destination. Soon, there will be students on fields trips and people taking vacation. It is during this time that I loathe public transportation the most. It's not because there are so many people, it is due to the fact that people are rude. How can you avoid being the rude commuter? Try following these simple rules:

• If seated next to a window with an empty aisle seat beside you, keep the aisle seat clear in case someone needs to sit.
• If an elderly or handicapped person enters the vehicle and there are not any empty seats, give your seat to them
• Try to maintain your personal "bubble". When buses and trains are packed, it is difficult to stand without touching someone else. During these times, it is best to keep your hands to yourself as much as possible and cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze.
• Use you inside voices. No one wants to hear your conversation.
• Wait your turn. Whether you want to believe it or not, everyone will be able to exit and enter a bus or train. Don't elbow your way on. Just wait your turn like everyone else.
• Walk like you have a destination in mind. Even if you are just whiling away the time, don't stand in the middle of the way. If you are lost, step aside so others can pass by.
• Smile. Everyone needs a good smile in their day. It will make you feel better.
• Keep your complaints to yourself. If the bus/train is delayed everyone is being held up. Don't point out the obvious. Keep your thoughts to yourself instead of trying to think of corny jokes and stupid comments.
• Keep your kids under control. No one wants to deal with your kids. Keep them seated and quiet. I understand that babies cry, and not much can be done about that. In the occurrence of the latter, don't give evil looks at the parent(s). They are probably doing what they can.
  
• Stay fresh. No one wants to smell your funk in a tight situation. Clean yourself and don't make everyone suffer because of your bad hygiene.
  

So, if you follow those rules, you might just have a great commute. Hope you enjoy your Thursday!

Image via ReadysetDC