Train Training - defensive seating

I hop on the train at it's first stop every morning... So I'm pretty much always guaranteed a seat where I want to sit. When the train starts filling up, and getting closer to my destination, I usually give up my seat to someone standing. Yes, there are still guys that do that... Although why, I don't know, when you hear or see the usual reactions I get from the people I offer my seat to.

Yes, OK, so I usually offer my seat to women... I have priorities... Pregnant women first, followed in order by elderly women, elderly men, then any women, if there are none that fit in those groups needing a seat, then I'll just get up and let the guys standing fight over it. However I would say that out of all the women I have given my seat to, only the elderly and pregnant women actually say thank you, or are nice about it. The average woman is usually very defensive, snapish, and sometimes just plain rude.

I guess that may be because they are not used to a geeky guy offering them a seat, I guess they must think I'm after something, or that if they accept this kindness, I will want something in return. The fact is, I do, all I want is a smile, maybe even a thankyou. It's become a chicken and egg situation though hasn't it? I mean, a few months ago, it was big news that people weren't giving up their seats for those that deserve them more, but with that sort of reaction, why would guys like myself bother to offer the seat we are comfortable in to someone else... Why wouldn't we just horde it until we get to our destination? Because giving up our seat is the right thing to do? Sure, it is... But then why are we made to feel guilty for it? Made to feel like we are a perverted stalker just wanting some sort of excuse to follow someone? And they wonder why no-one is willing to give up a seat... Where's the polite smile gone? Maybe the thank you?

Am I whinging? Yeah, I am... Maybe cause I'm getting tired of that look of horror I get for offering someone my seat... I admit, I'm a scarey guy, and I'll continue to offer my seat... Next time you get offered a seat, just think about your reaction. Stalkers are more likely to remember you treating them badly, than being polite. ;)