Something mystical and magical happens when strangers ride a bus, and by the end of the route they are all good friends because they have shared a special experience.
Such was the case a short time ago.I drive a bus, and one night, as I was making my last trip out of town for the day, it started to snow. Concerns were expressed by some of my passengers as to how bad it might snow, how deep and difficult it might be to get home, etc. I casually commented over the P.A. system that we should sing Christmas songs, and I proceeded to rattle off a few lines from a familiar cheerful Christmas tune.
I had no idea I was leading into one of the most incredible experiences of my driving career.
As songs were sung, applause was given and requests were made. "Warm fuzzies" were felt. By the time we were nearing the end of the line, the very atmosphere was thick with the spirit of Christmas, and it settled in upon us like a mantle of warmth and love. No one wanted to leave. Comments were given like, "This is the best bus ride I've ever had. Thank you so very much for sharing it with us."
If I should drive for a thousand more years, I shall probably never again experience what was felt by all that night. A feeling of closeness and oneness of heart and soul. We were able to grasp, if but for a moment, the very essence of peace. Those who were there know what I mean. We shall all never forget that brief moment in time, when on a dark and snowy night, our hearts were knit together as one.
Robert Curtis
Midvale