I wait in a scattered group of twenty or so people at the Olney Transportation Center for the “6” to arrive. It’s 6 p.m. and the weight of a long day is apparent on everyone’s face. Men in soiled work clothes glance impatiently at their watches while mothers try to calm crying children. Students pass the time in idle conversation with their fellow classmates. Everyone just wants to go home.
After a few minutes the bus slowly pulls around the corner to the relief of all. The people exiting the bus fight through the mass that forms instantly at the doors. Despite the chaos, everyone is courteous upon entering. The elderly and mothers with children are given priority, while everyone else files in behind.
Barely a seat is empty as the bus pulls onto Ogontz Avenue. It is apparent that the mood of the commuters has been lifted now that home is that much closer. The chatter grows more lively as the bus drives through Olney and into West Oak Lane. Some passengers discuss their day. Others stare quietly out the window, anxiously awaiting their stop.
Twenty later an automated voice informs us that we are approaching the final stop at Cheltenham and Ogontz. Soon after the “6” grinds to a halt and the few of us remaining quietly file out to await our transfer. Anthony, the driver, emerges last and quickly lights a Newport.
“Man,” he sighs between drags. “It’s been a long day.”
Matt Bell and Kristen van Genderen
Group 3
West and East Oak Lane
fa0309olney
No comments:
Post a Comment