she says courtesy is contagious

new york revived the "Ms. Subways" competition in 2004 after a 30 year hiatus. the 2004 Ms. Subways apparently goes uncontested considering we're in 2006, and she's still here.

throughout the subway cars, her face appears on billboards offering ideas for better subway etiquette.

"You have a standing invitation to offer your seat to pregnant women, the elderly, and the disabled."

today, as i travelled my underground commute, an elderly woman entered the packed train. she was barely able to shuffle aboard. and as i and the man next to me began to get our asses in gear to free our seats, we realized someone else had beaten us to the punch. a young man of about 15 had already sprung to his feet and was presenting the available spot to the woman. she looked grateful.

and i'll confess . . . i was warm with surprise. smiling.

there was something about that seemingly small gesture. the silent exchange between the boy and the elderly woman. something about this totally street, city kid instinctively offering his seat . . . offered me faith in others and hope for the future.