I had a sense this day would go sideways before it even started. You know that gnawing feeling in your gut, wondering whether you should’ve just stayed home? That was me this morning. But, being a responsible adult (or at least trying to act like one), I got myself to the train station, stomach ache and all.

As I stood there with an odd sense of dread on the outside platform, I wondered if it was all in my head. Of course, 20 minutes into the ride, the universe confirmed my suspicions: “Attention passengers, if you were planning to get off at [my stop], think again! Due to smoke in the borough, we won’t be stopping.” That’s right, smoke in the borough—no explanation, no solutions, just the solid truth that my day was about to get even more bewildering.

What followed was a scene right out of some post-apocalyptic movie: a whole train full of confused commuters dumped at the next station, standing in the cold with no further instructions. Uber was backed up, buses were elusive, and some brave souls tried calling in favors from friends (not sure how many succeeded). I, in true fashion, texted my clueless news to someone, hoping for a miracle. Thankfully, someone took pity on me and came to pick me up. But by then, I was cold, tired, bewildered, and dehydrated—not exactly the most glamorous of mornings.

After all that, I made it to work. I should’ve known the rest of the day would be just as chaotic. Nothing says “I should’ve stayed home” like starting your day wandering aimlessly with a group of strangers, waiting for further instructions that never come.

Lesson of the day? When you feel that unease before your commute, listen to your gut. And maybe bring a snack… you never know when you’ll end up stranded, bewildered, and dehydrated.