bus conversations full of pathos

for example i once sat down on the 22 bus in chicago and an elderly gentleman began talking to me. unlike many people who speak to you on the bus he was not strange at all, just lonely perhaps. he talked about his life and his time in chicago. he had a wife waiting for him at home. he had lived in the city all his life but obviously hadn't been getting out much recently as he eventually realized he was on the wrong bus. i explained where he should get off to switch buses. he was very kind and we wished each other well as he got off and i think we were both being sincere and heartfelt. after he left a man just two seats over turned to me and said, "you're a nice man" which actually made me a bit uncomfortable, as if i had been talking with this other man purely out of compassion, as opposed to genuine interest.

i hope that man is doing ok.