I wanted to pause for a moment and take this time to reflect on the toll of public transportation on the person. We are all aware of the toll it has on the consumer (the riders), but how often do we stop to think about the toll public transportation has on the drivers? That is, the bus drivers.
A recent even truly has left me saddened. A bus driver for Capital Metro in Austin Texas decided to end his life inside the bus. Why would someone resort to such drastic measures? We could all start speculating, but the fact of the matter is that we don’t know. What could have possibly been going through his head? What kind of pains was he feeling? Why the bus while off shift? I can’t help but to feel sadness. Especially since my best friend is a bus driver himself.
The fact that this gentleman decided to end his life inside the bus (in front of people) can only suggest that the bus was part of what he was protesting in his personal demise. Was it the company? Was it the poor state of transportation in America? Was it the work environment? We just don’t know?
Please, if you read this blog. Make it a goal to keep your ears, eyes, hearts, and minds open to other people. The truth of the matter is that in today’s time people are hurting. The general public tends to be very withdrawn from a community for the sake of not stepping on people’s toes or for the sake of civility. I tell you the truth, if I was having suicidal thoughts, I would love for someone to have the backbone to confront me.
Juan Castillo Jr.
PS
This is not entirely a planning topic, I know. However, this may have ties to planning since its transportation related. The case however is that whether in planning or life or photograph, this is a message that needs to be said and heard.
For more info: http://www.kvue.com/news/Off-duty-Capital-Metro-employee-commits-suicide-on-bus-162824566.html
Faces of Urban Regional Planning and Design 
This story touches on so much that society could change. It’s a hard one to really think about.
Agreed.