如果能时时保持微笑…(If you just smile...)

Every day, to my utter exasperation, I see the same unfriendly faces and come upon the same situations on the bus and the subway. See that person sitting next to you right now? It does not matter if they have really weird hair or smell kind of funky, give that person a chance to make conversation and don't just ignore them like you normally would.

I recently took a trip on the MRT where I was sitting next to a woman for about 15 minutes. I don't know about her, but I was ready to start a conversation within the first 30 seconds. She looked rather scared actually, so I didn't try making observations about the weather as I usually do. I come upon this situation, however, all too often. It is as if people go into their own little world when on public transportation and other commuters are not allowed entry.

Now I am not saying that people should start talking to strangers every time they are taking the bus or train, (are you listening, children?) but how about being a bit more friendly? If someone says "I'm sorry" after accidentally kicking you in the shin and you are in excruciating pain, tell them not to worry about it. On the other hand, if someone steps on your toes and does not apologise, I give you full permission to teach them a lesson about politeness. But make sure you smile afterwards and wave goodbye.

Another tip; if you are squished against a stranger on a packed train, give them a little smile of shared embarrassment. Just make sure this smile is not too big or held for too long, because that can be quite scary.

So spread the message of being kind on public transportation. Who knows? You might get squished a little less than usual and the people you smile at will treasure your kindness for the whole day.