Strangers on a Train: A Case for Communication and Connection

With a little courage, a chance encounter can yield unlikely inspiration—and lifelong memories.
Strangers on a Train: A Case for Communication and Connection
Meeting new people can introduce us to experiences and stories that inspire us to learn, grow, and break through boundaries. BearFotos/Shutterstock
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Inspiration is all around us. It could be found in acts of generosity from a complete stranger or in a witty conversation from a barista hell-bent on making you laugh about your choice of sandwich filling and whether you are partial to a smear of mustard or not.

Inspiration could also be found in the potted life history of an elderly traveler sitting next to you on the train, or a surprisingly positive interaction with a person you would probably cross the road to avoid but with whom you are thrown together on a long-haul journey with no means of escape.

 EJ Taylor
 EJ Taylor
Author
EJ Taylor is a UK-based environmental biologist, entomologist, and teacher with over 20 years of experience in working internationally. Ms. Taylor holds a fascination for the natural world and the relationships between species. Of particular interest are the effects of the natural environment on human well-being, mental health, and cognition. When not surrounded by nature, Ms. Taylor can be found creating artwork, cooking, pottering in the vegetable garden, or traveling (sometimes on a classic British motorcycle).
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