[nycfem]

I was on the subway today, and a man got on and set down his boom box and readied for a performance. He was very no nonsense and announced in a matter-of-fact way, "I'm not going to accidentally kick anyone during my dance" which felt reassuring and thoughtful to me, also exciting, because I knew he'd be doing flips and stuff. He turned on an energizing yet chill wordless beat and started with a long handstand on one hand with only the bottoms of his feet pressed lightly against the bar that strap hangers hold onto. He was completely vertical yet upside down on the subway holding himself that way on that one hand for an extended period of time, and during that time my mind expanded. It was fucking impressive and got everyone's attention which is hard to do in New York City, especially on the train. When he was done with the whole performance (he break danced and flipped his ass off) people smiled and clapped, also something New Yorkers don't do, and I felt at one with everyone. We knew this was as good as it gets, and we filled his hat with coins and bills.