Dear Bus Boy,

I was on the way back from the new modern art museum when you got on the bus. At first I didn't really see you, as I was engaged in a deep conversation with the retired French teacher who gave us a quick tour of the museum. But when I did see you, it was crazy. Although you are probably a few years older than me, I couldn't help but feel that I had seen you before, at least a few years back. You wore a blue-grey beanie with bits of your blond hair peaking out. You had a nose piercing now and those plugs in your ears (that matched the color of your eyes). You stared straight ahead, ignoring the world around you, emanating a cold, hard vibe.

I immediately wondered what made you this way.

You had your earbuds in, and I noticed the way your head bopped a little to whatever song you were listening to.

I wanted to know the song that played to your soul.

The rest of your outfit matched your beanie, except for your back beat up Vans, and you had one of those expensive techies backpacks (so I assume you are doing pretty good for yourself).

But I kept coming back to the fact that your were dressed so dark on such a nice day. Why did you look so sad - so angry - so numb.

I know I've felt that way before, but it looked so deeply engraved in you. 

Why? How?

I'm sure you'll never answer these questions, but I urge you to think about them.

I know that it's none of my business to give advice to a stranger, but maybe it'll help.

Wishing that a smile may come to your lips one day,

J ❤️