THE SUBWAY SEAT

Something must have happened without my knowing. I crossed some invisible line and I am now elderly, everywhere. I thought I was hiding it well with my zest for life while marching towards the abyss. But alas, several times recently young men have leapt up and offered me their seat on the subway. In the past if anyone did that -- and please recognize that it was infrequent as I only became elderly on Tuesday at 3:53 pm – I refused, almost insulted by the assumption that I needed help. But now, I have a clear sense of my function. As an (gulp) old woman, it is my duty to impart my wisdom, share my experience, fill in the gaps caused by mindless yearnings and adolescent angst. I’m sensing that the young need encouragement and this act of civility should be celebrated with warm thanks and a sincere head-bow, otherwise it will disappear entirely. My new job is to accept every seat offered anywhere. I am tempted to post screenshots of these polite young men to encourage others, but I fear they would be swamped by blue-haired matrons everywhere. I will leave them in peace and hope that with my gentle encouragement they will continue this behavior and start a movement. Next: Backpacks.