Whether I like it or not, that is reality. I have to accept it, for not doing so causes greater pain. So I give in to this life and aim to get the best out of each experience, even if that includes being crammed against a stranger who smells strongly of cheap cologne. I will never be in this moment, quietly sitting on the bus again — well, at least not until Thanksgiving. But each one of these instances is and will be unique. On some rides, I meet people, but in this case, I reflect and choose to acknowledge my existence.