Does life sometimes feel like a subway ride?

Jon Krop thinks so. He teaches meditation, and found three ways to turn his daily commute on a crowded subway car into an opportunity for spiritual growth. If your busy life feels like a ride on a crowded train, here's his advice.  First, look for ways to be generous. On most subways, comfort is hard to find, so stop trying. Instead, seek ways to help other passengers find comfort.

                                                                                                                  Photo by Richard Panse
Krop's next bit of advice is to stand up when there are not enough seats for everyone. Don't just give up your seat for seniors and pregnant women. Give up your seat for anyone who can't find one, even a little child. It will make them feel good, and it will make you feel good too. Finally, if a ragged beggar gets on the subway and starts asking everyone for money, don't look away. Share what you have, and don't share it coldly. Focus on the beggar. Recognize his or her humanity, and then give something. Krop always keeps two Clif Bars in his shoulder bag, to give away. He remembers what Buddha said about sharing. "If you knew what I know about the power of giving, you would not let a single meal pass without sharing it in some way." That's food for thought!