the irony of public transportation (public transportation rant revision)

In my last post, I discussed the problems I've encountered while being a passenger on the bus. As a regular rider for the past two and a half years, I only found it fitting that I ranted about it, as the two things I mentioned in said rant really DO bug me: getting hit on by creepy guys at the bus stop and people who noisily draw attention to themselves.

However, there is some sort of irony to being a passenger on what we call "public" transportation. There are rules, as designated on the signs that can be read (but only if the other passengers actually paid attention) if a rider looks up on the "ceiling" of the bus. I mean, there are even SYMBOLS, actual PICTURES, that clearly spell out what NOT to do on the bus, in order to create some proper orderly conduct to make the bus ride more enjoyable.

That being said, as a passenger, I do follow these designated rules. Not only are there rules listed, but there are actual consequences for breaking the rules (also listed, and quite possibly next to that sign that has the clearly spelled out symbols on it). The driver reserves the right to kick anyone off the bus who is considered to be a bother out of respect for their other passengers.

The irony of being a passenger is this: riders maintain their privacy as passengers. Even though in a public space (note the difference between "public space" and "public transportation"; these terms are not synonymous with each other), where, technically, there are no "rules" for what they can and cannot do (this is a free country, after all), those who ride the bus, and maybe even for the first time, some of them, KNOW that even in public, bus riding etiquette must be kept in tact. If not, then the balance is thrown, causing chaos and unwanted attention.

For example, you probably wouldn't want to let out an unconscious stream of expletives on the bus, but in the privacy of your own personal space...as in, in your own car. That'd be a lot safer. And no one would be throwing you dirty looks.

It's like I said before: if you're going to ride the bus, you just have to be wary of the things that can happen.

(Especially those creepy guys that can hit on you.
 But that's another rant altogether.)