Do you mind?
How many of you out there have had to deal with people who just don\’t care that you might want a seat on the train? It sometimes has you thinking twice as to whether or not you want to even bother asking the person to move their pocketbook (read shopping bag, newspaper, backpack, foot!) off the seat next to them, even though the train is already crowded. And even when you do think you will ask, you might pause a minute to decide, “Do I give the stern look and growl at them, or do I ask the quiet, polite way that my mother taught me?”
Seriously people, we have all had the day where we would rather have the free seats next to us remain free. I am sure everyone has wished they were not sitting next to someone with questionable hygiene. But should I really have to engage in soul-searching questions when going home at rush-hour?
This post was submitted by Shelly-Ann .
Comments
This is another reason I always stand so I don’t have to ask the “do you mind” question.
I use neither the ask sternly or ask nicely approach. Generally, the person is trying to ignore you so I go with what could be contrived as a rude approach but an effective approach. I tap the person on the shoulder, indicate that I want to sit down with a series of points, usually the person instinctively moves the stuff and I sit down.
All about body language baby
Sometimes I do that too Samayah. But if I have a long enough trip, or my bags are heavy, I think I deserve to put my seat on the seat as much as anybody else without having to beg for it!
And I forgot to add that I hate when they move over grudgingly…as if they paid for your seat too! What nerve!
Well I use my bike when I know it’s traffic time and the weather is good… heavy traffic can make your day worst..
It’s ok to have a comment.
I like walking, this is a great way to improve health and not to spoil mood because of people who don’t care about you seating or not
Guys I totally agree with biking or walking, though I haven’t been on the exercising binge for quite a while. I personally walked everywhere it was practical to walk to. But what about those Coney Island to Manhattan trips? Maybe the MTA should put up a sign like they do for people who are older or have a physical disability. It should read, “There are other people on this bus/train that would like to sit and be comfortable. Please leave your selfishness outside, and act like a civilized human being to your fellow commuters.”
Its nice to listen to your experiences. This can be a great resource for the older blogs that need to make some changes.
More and more ngo keep saying “motorpool and public transportation are healthier for you and the planet!” and yet as far as our health goes, it’s actually worse. I for one don’t mind standing up, i actually prefer it since i sit on a chair most of the day so i get extra exercise whenever i can, but the thought that some people with, as you said, questionable hygiene, use it as well sickens me. I remember in my college years i chose to walk 20 minutes so i can reach a bussline that was used by mostly students because the one near me was used by workers who don’t fancy soap and water in the morning. But as far as the problem you mentioned goes, question is, do you beat them up or ignore them, because they have to learn a lesson sooner or later.
Oh, that is really horrible! I hate people like those. You should look around first! Maybe someone needs that seat more than you do.