14 HE ROARED AND ROARED!

It was a smooth subway ride that was surprisingly fast without delays or tunnel traffic stops. I was happy. I thought, 'I am making good time.'

Feeling good on making excellent time I boarded the streetcar on the last track of my commute. I sat quietly reading while waiting for it to take off. Across from me sat a Philippino young man in what seem like his early 20s. To the right of him on the ground sat his florescent green knapsack covered in grime and unsightly stains. He picked up his knapsack off the ground and searched around around a bit.  He eventually pulled out a bottle of coke and drank thirstily. He then put the rest of the coke back into his bag and dropped it unceremoniously on the ground. He moved restlessly on the seat. Although I continue to read I split my attention to pay attention to my surroundings.

The streetcar closed its doors and sped off. Halfway through the ride I noticed the young man moving more restlessly. His hands and feet would kick out in unexpected intervolves. I became more alert. I immediately put away my reading and sat with more awareness.  Instinct told me something was about to happen. I though I was ready. I thought I was alert. Suddenly he roared this rip roaring sound! I almost jumped out of my skin. I could see the startled faces of the passengers around me. Some people were visibly uncomfortable while others were frightened. Others moved back further into the streetcar while someone in the back yell out, "Stop taking drugs." 

I took deep breaths to calm myself. I sat with my back straight poised and ready to move quickly. Then it happened again. He roared again this time kicking out. I thought I was prepared. I was clearly not because I jumped again. Thankfully my stop was announced and i exited the streetcar with a prayer of thankfulness on my lips.

photo found at https://www.redvana.com/lion-roar-2