Today was not only my first full day back from Alaska – it was my first day back to work. Despite the fact that I love my job and I was not dreading my return to the “daily grind” – I did, however – get many quick reminders of the difference between Alaska and New York City – especially when I boarded the subway.

Considering the fact that I had to return my City car until I returned from Alaska, I had to take the subway to work my first day back – something I thankfully have not done in months – but was not looking forward to doing today.

From the moment I boarded the train – it was just as I remembered it. It had the same delightfully delicious smell, the same “fully functioning” air conditioner – and the same “friendly” straphangers who, judging by the disgusted looks on their faces – were just as unhappy to be in that subway car as I was.

In addition to the smell, temperature and attitudes that the subway provides, the iron horse also allows you to feel as if you are in a game of tackle football. During my trip to work yesterday, I was elbowed in the head, hit with a bag and jabbed in the ribs – and never once apologized to. I just spent a week in a town where complete strangers wish you a good morning as you pass them by – but on the New York City subway – your fellow straphangers just wish you would get out of their way.

Besides the subway, I had to get re-acquainted with the other differences between New York City and Alaska, like the fact that when I crossed the streets of Juneau, the cars stopped for me – but here in the Big Apple – cars don’t stop for anything. Also, if I so much as try to wish a good morning to a complete stranger here like I did in Alaska – they would probably look at me like I had three heads.

Don’t get me wrong, I am very happy to be back in my hometown – I just never realized how cold and uncaring City dwellers are toward their fellow man compared to other places. While New York City may be the Capital Of The World – perhaps a town with a population of less then ten percent of New York’s population can teach us a thing or two – like how to be nicer to one another.