Bus Stop Findings

So a passer-by asks a familiar question; "Where is the nearest bus stop?"

(Lets forget for a moment how they didn't say "excuse me," or "could I bother you a moment?")

I quickly explain, a little too rehearsed, that the nearest bus stop is on just the other side of seventh avenue. They assume I am lying and ask where the next one is in the opposite direction. I tell them, "on the corner of sixth avenue."

Now, the first stop is HALF the distance from my door, then the sixth avenue stop. Both positions can clearly be seen. And yet, 99.9995% proceed to go to the farthest stop. (without a "thank you" or even a "cheers" from our visitors from across the pond)

Two reasons come to mind.

1. They are a tourist and don't know how far sixth avenue is. Though you can see both, especially at night with the traffic lights.

2. They are scared of crossing 7th avenue. (???? then you probably aren't ready for New York)

I've mixed and matched the order I tell them. I've explained the difference in distance. I have even pointed at a bus picking up passengers in front of the nearest stop. And yet.......

oh well