Sonder

n. the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own — populated with their own ambitions, friends, routines, worries and inherited craziness. (The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows)

Fuck; I murmured under my breath. My balance is too low. Annoyingly, I walked towards the kiosk and refilled my Metro card.

In the corner of my eye, I see an older man waiting near the emergency exit near the turnstiles. As I swipe through, I double back and swiftly open the door for the man behind me. He slightly nods with gratitude.