I Have my Limits

My train pass costs me $242.00 a month.  Sadly, this is not subsidized by my employer.  However, this pass grants me all access to commuter rail, T (aka the subway in Boston) and bus service.  I have been commuting for nearly 8 years.   I learned a vital lessson my first year on the morning of February 3rd. Each seat on the train has a loop sewn into it to make your ticket visible to the conductor.  I plopped down, slid my ticket in the loop, and opened "The Devil Wears Prada".  Forty-five minutes later we arrive in Back Bay.  I was so mesmerized by the book, that I nearly missed the stop.  I rushed off the train and left the ticket there on the seat.  Once I realized my error, I figured the problem would be solved by ringing the MBTA for a replacement pass.  WRONG!  The MBTA does not issue replacement passes.  My options were to either pay the daily fare for the remainder of the month or buy another monthly pass.  A quick calculation proved that the most economical choice was the latter one.   The moral of the story? If you are easily distracted, don't use the loop on the seat, ever!

Earlier this year, my co-worker asked me if he could borrow my commuter pass to run some errands.  I detest being put in situations like this.  "Don't you have a Charlie Card?"  I ask Ethan. (about 5 years ago, the MBTA launched the Charlie Card which replaced the subway token.  You apply a specific amount to the card and replenish it when necessary.)  "I do, but I have to switch lines and I don't want to pay for multiple fares.  Besides, you have unlimited rides with your monthly pass, don't you?" I was astounded by the nerve of this guy.  Just because I have unlimited rides, doesn't mean it's a free for all! WTF?! After lecturing him on the consequences of losing a pass and not wanting to be the mean girl, I quite reluctantly loaned him my card with the stipulation that this is the first and last time it will happen.

Today Ethan leans against my desk and asks "Hey can I use your subway pass?" I answer with a very adamant no.  Can you believe this guy? I have my limits.