On the Train and Going Nowhere

Despite leaving home and arriving at the station at 8:30 am, I was late to work.

Midway through my trip, the train apparently lost power. Every few minutes or so an announcement was made that we would be moving shortly and to please be patient.

Wait. We lost power but we'd be moving shortly. Anyone else a mite perplexed?

Surprisingly, the occupants of my packed car took the news well. A few grumbles and curses here and there, but no one panicked or started an argument. Even as 7 to 8 trains passed us on the other track heading south.

I felt terribly sorry for the infant I could hear squalling somewhere in the crowd. I distinctly remember wondering why the baby's caretaker didn't attempt to soothe him/her. I didn't hear the reassuring sounds one makes to children, and it was obvious that no one was picking up the poor thing. Eventually he/she must have fallen asleep. I could empathize.

About 20 minutes after we were stalled, we were given the option of exiting train from the last car and making our way into the station we'd left behind us. After a brief flurry of movement, it was clear no one was actually getting anywhere. After another half hour, there was more movement and, of a sudden, my car was nearly empty.

I don't need to tell you what happened after that, do I?

Well, yes, once the majority of the people fled the train, it suddenly regained power and literally less than 2 minutes later, we were en route. Oh, the irony.

At least I had a book and my early birthday swag to keep my thoughts occupied. :-D