Update: That weird subway moment flipped my view on chatting with strangers

I always avoided eye contact and kept to myself on my train rides, thinking it was the polite move. Then last month, this older lady started telling me about her dog and it actually made my day better. Now I see small talk as a way to break up the monotony, not an intrusion. But I know some people hate it and just want to be left alone in their bubble. Where do you stand? Are casual convos on transit a nice surprise or a total annoyance? Share your takes below.

3 comments

3 Comments

jamesf412mo ago

Funny, @patricialee, once a guy told me his cat's entire medical history, no dog but still weirdly sweet.

elliot_patel2mo ago

Seriously, these random chats can go ANYWHERE. Once on a long bus ride, this dude saw me reading a sci-fi book and launched into a full breakdown of his favorite alien conspiracy theories. It was so out of left field but honestly really cool. Forgot all about my boring commute. Now I'm low-key hoping for more weird tangents instead of just staring at my phone. Those unplanned moments add some actual color to the daily grind.

patricialee2mo ago

Wait, she just started telling you about her dog? Out of nowhere? That's wild. Most people just complain about the weather or the train being late. A whole pet backstory is next level. Honestly, that would either make my week or scare me a little. Kind of cool it went the good way for you.