The Best of Humanity Rides the Bus

Congratulations to Joe Honig for his essay on riding the bus in Los Angeles (“Through My Window,” Oct. 23). I am an older citizen who still drives but uses city buses extensively, including the Santa Monica, Culver City and MTA buses. I am struck by how courteous the majority of fellow bus riders are who offer me and others seats or assistance. It’s true that most of them probably can’t afford cars, but that hardly makes them second-class citizens. As Honig says, they are going from one job to another, but they are attempting to achieve the American Dream, whatever that is, and they go about it in humane ways that are almost nonexistent among my fellow car drivers.

It is rare to hear a “thank you” for holding a door open in Beverly Hills, but I hear it every time I’m on a bus, whether it’s directed toward the bus driver or another passenger. Those who don’t ride public transportation should try it, get a taste of what the city really is and possibly change their outlook. We have adopted the attitudes of the entertainment community, which really makes up a lesser part of Greater Los Angeles, and that is a shame. For the most part, we are not a “dog-eat-dog” society. If you want proof, take a bus ride for half an hour. It will be rewarding.

Phil Isaacs

Los Angeles

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Honig’s essay was quite lovely. Romantic, wistful and evocative. Yet I don’t remember my experience taking public transportation for 10 years while growing up in Echo Park as anything like the experiences he describes. I admire his reaching out to connect with others and bringing the lives of hardworking people to the surface rather than letting them be the forgotten ones who make life easier for others while letting their own needs go unanswered.

Most people ride the bus because they have no other choice. It is truly awful to run across busy intersections, trying to catch the bus driver’s eye so that you don’t miss your transfer and are then late for work or class or home. In the rain. Carrying your books or groceries.

My car, and its immeasurable convenience, safety and privacy, is something I will never take for granted.

Victoria Lee-Jerrems

Van Nuys