Metro and Doing a Good Job Just Because

If you ride the Washington Metro’s Orange Line (Vienna-New Carrollton) at the right time of day, you probably know him as the conductor who calls it the “Orange train” rather than the “Orange Line.” But that’s not his only distinctive feature. He also wishes riders a good evening at almost every stop on the ride home… and on the ride in the morning, wishes us “a productive day.”

He’s the kind of conductor who waits if he sees someone racing down the stairs or platform to make his train. He’s also the kind of conductor who when there are delays, keeps the riders updated on what he knows about when we’ll be moving, using a calming, conversational tone.

For months, I’ve been meaning to send Metro a note about this conductor, but then I wasn’t sure if he’d get in trouble if I identified him as “the guy who always says ‘Orange train,’ not ‘Orange line.'” I asked just this week at the station near my home if it was possible to get his number based on the train’s cars, and was told no.

Then, this morning I ended up in the front car–and he was the conductor! I was downright giggly about finally meeting him and getting his name and number so I tell Metro what a great job he does. I hurried out the door at my stop and went to his window. I was a bit surprised to see he’s about my age… his deep, clear voice had always said younger man to me. I quickly told him how much I enjoyed riding in his car and how he made my commute easier. He gave a big smile and said thanks.

Then I asked for his name or agent number so I could contact Metro. He smiled again. “There’s no need for that,” he said. “You just did all you needed to do. Thank you, and thank you for riding Metro.”

As I watched the train pull away, I said a little prayer for him… and for the lesson in doing a good job just because, humbly and without any expectation of special rewards.