Aretha Franklin sang about it. We're supposed to show it to everyone who deserves it. Why is it then that when Americans travel to foreign countries they feel that they can throw respect out of the window? On the Kyoto buses there are some purple seats. Even if you can't read the Japanese saying "please---thank you" and explaining how they are priority seats for the elderly, pregnant or disabled, you can see the pictures and read the...um...ENGLISH. Today there were two wonderful (<---laced in thick, syrupy sarcasm) representatives of America on a crowded bus. Most people who ride the bus in Kyoto are either elderly or college students. College students usually have strong, strapping young bodies and are capable of standing for their 15 minute ride to wherever, but the elderly deserve a rest. They've been standing for who knows how many years. But instead of even bothering to look and see if anyone needed their seat, these people just hogged 2 priority seats and stared out the window while a couple of elderly people hung onto the side of the seat. I was so appalled at their behavior and wanted to point out their rudeness, but sometimes it's just better to bite your tongue. However, when you who is reading this blog ever go anywhere where you are taking up a seat that otherwise could be used by someone with not quite so strong of legs, please give it up. Have respect for them - they've lived long and they deserve it. Sacrifice a little please!
Posted by Kristen at August 26, 2003 05:31 PM
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