CTA Discovery

After many strenuous rides on the CTA (Chicago Transportation Authority), I decided it's time to share a memorable moment.

Lately, the train has been crammed with people every morning. It doesn't matter how earlier or late I arrive...I can guarantee to be squeezed in like a sardine. I always admire the riders who sit comfortably in their seat reading the latest RedEye while I barely have a grip on the metal bar wobbling on my "sea" legs. I still haven't adjusted or just don't have the balance in me to stand steady on the constantly shifting train car. I'm always bumping into the next person as soon as the train pulls away or comes to a halt at the station. I feel like the jug of milk that didn't get placed properly in the back seat of the car. So while you're driving comfortably home, I'm rolling all over the place knocking everything around in site. With a crammed train car, nobody likes the girl who can't stand on her own. You'd think they would like the comedic act in the morning, but I'm the only one laughing at myself every morning.

This morning there was an overly joyous Latino who could not contain his excitement in the train car. He continued talking to his friend on his cell phone telling him that yesterday was the best day of his life, and that he had the urge to scream about it to everyone on the train. Oh no. I'm all for other people's joys in life, but it was too early and too crowded for this level of enthusiasm. The guy told his friend, "You know, I think I am going to shout out my great news to everyone here. I just need to wait for the next stop since it's too loud now." Everyone surrounding me looked at each other nervously, and the guy next to me directed another passenger to take off his headphones to catch the craziness that was about to happen. The train comes to a slow stop. Then, you hear the big announcement from the Latino, "Everyone, Jesus Christ loves you!!! He loves me! I met him last night at the Baptist church! Save yourself and go to the Baptist church on Armitage to meet him! He's there!!! I'm SO happy!!! And you could be too!!!"

There were mixed reactions throughout the train car. A couple people shouted, "Amen!" while he pronounced his devotion and newfound faith. Other people rolled their eyes and looked absolutely disgusted by the distraction. One guy yelled back, "Jesus is everywhere not just on Armitage!" Another "Amen!" followed that as well. My reaction - I couldn't stop smiling and laughing. How could anyone be so disgusted with this announcement? This man was SO happy (obnoxious, but happy) and who am I to look down upon that. I always viewed the CTA as a place to spread germs and disease. Who knew it also could spread the word of the Lord...and happiness?

I'm not one to shove my faith on anybody and I dislike the preachers who condemn the bypassers on Michigan Avenue, but this was different. This man just couldn't contain his excitement. I've had those moments where joy overwhelms me and I wish I could tell everyone I see, but my self-conscious detains me. I hope we've all had those moments where we've felt so good that in reaction we sang out loud, danced (most likely in our room alone,) smiled so big our cheeks hurt or whatever else your little heart desires.

Since today is Friday, we all have a good reason to be happy. Take a moment and reflect on one of the best moments in your life. Enjoy it as if it were happening all over again.