The Person Next to Me (English Version)

The Person Next to Me (English Version)

Introduction

Who is the person sitting next to me? On a bus, on a train, or in a busy crowd, I often wonder about the strangers I meet. Are they the same age as me? Where do they live? Are they living alone, or with someone they love?

I smile to myself while thinking about these things. People might think I am a "strange old man." But that is okay. I am just a part of the city, just like everyone else.

Chapter 1: At the Bus Stop

I am traveling from the quiet suburbs to the big city of Tokyo. I like taking the bus. Unlike trains, there are no long stairs or ticket gates. It is easy on my legs. In Tokyo, when you turn 70, you can get a "Silver Pass." With this "magic card," I can ride almost any bus or subway in the city for a very small fee.

I love these small, cheap trips. I love the unknown views, the colors of new towns, and the "once-in-a-lifetime" meetings with people sitting next to me. Now, the bus is coming. Let’s start the journey.

Chapter 2: On the Bus

I start my trip at the western edge of Tokyo. At first, the bus is empty. It feels like my private room. I don’t even know exactly where this bus is going, but that is the fun part of the trip.

Soon, two elderly ladies get on. They talk very loudly about their plans. "Let's have breakfast at McDonald's and wait for the supermarket to open!" The quiet bus suddenly becomes a lively place. I listen to their stories and imagine their lives.

As we move toward the city, more people get on. "The new supermarket is very cheap!" "I heard a new train line is coming to this town." The bus is like a moving community center. Everyone is sharing news about their daily lives.

Then, the bus reaches a station. Many people get off, and new people get on with heavy shopping bags. I smell fresh vegetables and fried food from their bags. Finally, the bus announcement says: "Next stop, Hana-Koganei Station." Now I know where I am. I feel safe and relax in my seat.

Suddenly, a young woman sits next to me. She has a very strong, sweet perfume. She is very busy. She opens a small mirror and starts doing her makeup while the bus is moving. I was surprised! I thought young people might not want to sit next to an old man, but she didn’t mind at all.

At the last stop, Hana-Koganei Station, I see an elderly couple. They are asking the driver many questions. "How can we go to Shinjuku by bus?" "We don't want to use the train because there are too many stairs." I understand them perfectly. Trains are fast, but buses are kind to us.

I follow them to the next bus stop. I am going to take a bus to Kichijoji now. I see the couple waiting in line too. I feel a little happy, like I have found new friends, even though we don't speak.

What kind of person will sit next to me on the next bus? My small journey continues.