The daily trek to Tel Aviv has certainly changed my life, and not for the better. I come home from work totally exhausted. The job is not tiring, the traveling is! I certainly have no desire to go to the daf yomi lesson. I have less patience for my family. I pray that I will find work in Jerusalem soon.
I have learned to make the best of my time on the bus. Here is a list of commuting tips:
1) Books: At least some of the time on the bus can be utilized for learning. I take a chumash and some mishnayot along with me.
2) MP3 player: This device was invented for commuters. After you are tired of learning from the books, you can sit back, relax and listen to shiurim or music.
3) Munchies: Being hungry on the bus adds to the misery. Fruit, cookies and chewing gum are good to have around. I don't recommend drinking too much as having a full bladder without the possibility of of emptying it is not pleasant.
4) Cellular telephone: Don't leave home without it!
Even with all of the above, sometimes I get bored. Taking pictures is my last resort of keeping myself entertained:
