The Amtrak train from New York’s Penn Station to 30th Street Philadelphia burped and lurched and suddenly screeched to a stop in Newark. As passengers wondered what happened, the conductor instructed everyone headed to Philadelphia to get off. He said the train had mechanical problems and we were to wait on the platform for the next train to Philadelphia.
Given it was evening rush hour, when the next train arrived; it was packed without a seat to be found. So like others, I stood for the following one and a half hours. Only, I was wearing high heels that quickly became uncomfortable as I was sandwiched in-between two bouncy rail cars standing shoulder to shoulder with two male strangers whose 24-hour deodorant was apparently on its 25th hour on this muggy summer evening. So, a little unsteady on my feet and staring to feel queasy, I held on hoping for the best. [Read more…] about Your call is very important to us