The slogan for Subway is "Eat Fresh". In New York, the slogan for the subway should be "Feel Uncomfortable". And when I say uncomfortable, I'm not referencing the hard seats or the crowds of people who are way too musty for 7am. In the last few days I have uncovered yet another element of the subway which insists on disturbing my comfort level. I'd like to call this phenomenon The Subway Stare.
I've always been taught how rude it is to stare at people. I mean, mind your business, right? If something is pleasing, troubling, or surprising to your eye, afford it a quick natural glance and get on with your life. I just assumed this was an obvious rule on the New York subway, so I always like to make sure I have plenty of items of distraction in my work bag including my iPad and my phone. If I'm standing and can't comfortably access these items, I look out the window. I prepare for or reflect on my day. I think about how I'd rather be in bed. I do ANYTHING but stare at the curious looking people accompanying me on my ride.
I guess I'm part of a minority. Yesterday, I happened to give that quick natural glance at a woman who sat next to me. By glancing at her, I realized she was staring at the young man across from her with utter disgust. I suppose this is because he was looking at her with utter lust. And I mean, this kid could not have been older than 17 or 18, and the woman was probably my age, so I can totally understand why she was bothered by his attraction. But instead of picking up her newspaper and hiding herself from his invasive eyes, she stared right back, almost willing him to keep staring so that she could hate him more. Enter the young man's mom who, upon realizing this staring contest was occurring, kissed her son on the cheek, and then produced her own version of the death glare.
I was baffled by this exchange. And after I realized I had been, in fact, staring at these people for at least 5 minutes, I grabbed my iPad and began writing this post.
This morning is nothing different. I'm noticing how much New Yorkers love staring at others while they're on the subway. I assumed that the close proximity of travelers would make people more introverted. But I guess this method of travel lends itself to an intimacy that promotes the wandering, and settling, of eyes. This has been an awesome teachable moment New York. I'm impressed.
By the way: as I'm finishing up my thoughts, a small boy is staring at every word I type. Let's see if I can freak him out. Santa is a fraud, sucker.
Does this kid know what the word "fraud" means? Does he even celebrate Christmas? Ugh.
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