Riding the Bus with Me

I’m grateful to the heavens for blessing me with a wife who is willing to ride the bus with me. Before we moved to Taiwan, we were used to taking the bus in Hong Kong, only opting for a taxi when necessary.

After arriving in Taichung, we discovered how convenient the buses, MRT, and YouBike systems are. We once considered buying a car, but ultimately found that the bus better suits our lifestyle.

My wife is a true bus expert. With just one app in hand, she knows all there is to know about the bus routes. Before we go out, she always checks the bus schedules, and her planning is nearly flawless.

The buses in Taichung are comfortable and spacious, especially since we usually travel during off-peak hours, making the rides even more enjoyable. Even during rush hours, the experience remains pleasant because the passengers are so courteous, which makes us feel truly blessed.

Every time we get on or off the bus, we make it a point to thank the driver. This is a habit we picked up from observing other passengers. It’s a wonderful cultural practice, one that fills our hearts with gratitude and reduces complaints, making time feel more precious. Considering the constantly changing road conditions, bus drivers have a tough job, and we sincerely appreciate their efforts.

We often encounter heartwarming moments on Taichung buses. Younger passengers willingly give up their seats, while older ones show concern for children. Even among strangers, it’s easy to strike up a conversation, and this warmth really touches us. We love the friendly interactions with our Taiwanese friends. When they find out we’ve immigrated here, they often say, “Welcome to Taiwan!” These heartfelt greetings warm our hearts.

Occasionally, the bus can be a bit bumpy, but we see it as a great opportunity for some exercise. Sometimes the drivers in Taichung drive the bus like it’s a speedboat, so we’ve got to work on our core strength and endurance. Thankfully, our habit of staying fit in Hong Kong helps, and even the occasional sprint to catch a bus keeps our explosiveness in check.

Many of Taichung’s buses feel like tourist coaches, making everyday rides feel like a journey. We are truly thankful—for Taichung’s public transportation system and for everyone who makes it possible.

It’s easy to go from frugality to luxury, but the reverse is challenging. I’m grateful to my wife for embracing my lifestyle. Now, with our own home in a neighborhood that boasts excellent transportation, life feels effortless. I thank my wife for trusting me and giving us the time to gradually improve our lives. We are already very fortunate and content. Any further blessings would simply be a gift from above. Thank you to the heavens, and thank you, Taiwan.