Dear CTA Riders

Hi. How are you this morning? Happy Tuesday!

Most people I know don't drive to work, but they do take the train or bus (sometimes both).

Makes sense. We live in one of the largest metropolitan areas on the planet, with one of the most extensive public transportation systems. It might not get you there on time, but it will get you there.

Riding the bus and/or train becomes a hassle, though, when other riders don't respect the rules (and, thus, other riders) by keeping their bags slung over their shoulders rather than taking them off and holding them in front of them as they push their way through the conveyance of choice/necessity.

And then? if they do find a seat, they like to have a seat for their backpack or purse or shopping bag or whatever, too, thus leaving someone else to stand and stare.

Listen, please. We all want to get where we're going as quickly, quietly, peacefully and comfortably as possible. Nobody likes to stand, especially when there's a seat available.

So do those of us who usually do the standing a favor: Move that backpack/bag/purse into your lap. Or onto the floor. Yes, I know--CTA floors are nasty. They usually run with fluids that may be the remnants of cleaning fluid, or...not. I agree. I sympathize. Really, I do.

But I also am usually the person who gets smacked in the head or shoulder or back by your bag as you try to squeeze past me to as seat in the back of the bus that isn't really there, or as you stand beside me and turn to check your iPhone for the latest LOL Cat meme.

So please. For the safety and comfort of your fellow passengers on the bus, on the train, and in life, hold your bag toward the floor and hold it ahead of you as you try to squeeze past me toward that seat that isn't there. My shoulders/thighs/back/head would appreciate it.