on a westbound train

Late tonight I boarded a train bound for points west. My destination is a small town in Eastern Montana, though I’m more eager for the 12 hour train ride than the destination.

Shame train transport is not more popular. The train station lacked the panic and fear that permeates the airport. There were no armed guards warily eyeing passengers, no Homeland Security employees demanding a disrobing, just a ticket-taker directing me to my berth on board.

The train itself is a terrific experience in first class, each room with two seats that convert into bunk beds. Not the most comfortable of either, both still outclass airplanes in comfort and roominess. Most important, the train is not so confining as the plane. The passengers are less anxious, with room to spread out and lengths of cars to roam.

If only trains were faster, cheaper and more reliable. Until then, air travel will still dominate, a cost to our sanity and civility.