I typically take Uber or Lyft for a few reasons—mainly for convenience and to avoid dealing with the unpleasantness of public transit. After all, when you’re in a car with just one other person, it’s usually a lot more comfortable than being crammed into a bus with a crowd of strangers. But today, I decided to take the bus to save a little money. And well, this decision was a reminder of why I usually avoid it.

As I was approaching the bus stop, there were already two people waiting. Then, just before I got there, a grown man arrived—he was the third person to show up. The bus came shortly after, and instead of waiting in line like the rest of us, this guy rushed right up to the doors and got on without any regard for the line. It was frustrating to watch. I don’t know if it’s entitlement, impatience, or both, but it was just rude.

That was bad (and yes, I’m aware it happens many, many times, every single day), but it got worse once I was on the bus.

I found a seat facing the back window, so I wasn’t directly across from anyone. But in my line of sight, there was this grown man with his female companion. His seat was facing the left window, and from where I sat, I could see him doing something incredibly gross. This man, without any shame, began putting his fingers into his mouth like he was flossing. Flossing. On a public bus. He did this repeatedly—put his fingers in his mouth, pulled them out, and wiped them on his hair. Then, as if that wasn’t gross enough, he put those same fingers back into his mouth, and later wiped them on his pants. The entire thing was just… disgusting.

I couldn’t believe what I was witnessing. Public spaces already feel a little more uncomfortable since COVID, but seeing someone behave like that just reminded me why I avoid public transportation. It’s not just about the hygiene (though that’s a big part of it), it’s also about the lack of consideration for others.

And no, I don’t want to drive. I get it, driving might seem like an easy alternative, but sometimes it’s just easier to let someone else handle the driving. But public transit, especially after everything that’s happened, is just not worth the hassle for me anymore.

At the end of the day, I’m sticking with ride-sharing. It’s cleaner, quieter, and, most importantly, a lot more respectful.