Motti Levy’s been driving for Egged since 1969, when access to the Kosel was still a newly won thrill
Motti Levy, the white-haired driver, is awake and alert. At 73 years old, Mr. Levy is semiretired and only drives between 4 and 10 a.m. He’s been driving this route for the last four or five years and enjoys the empty streets, the quiet drive — and the very special passengers.
He’s about to pull out of the bus stop, but then he glances into his mirror and brakes. There’s a woman rushing toward the bus, and he graciously waits for her to board before continuing.
“A regular?” I ask. He nods. Most of the passengers at this hour are.
The scene repeats itself at many of the stops. Mr. Levy knows his customers well, and considers it a privilege to take them to their sacred destination. Over the years, he’s built a steady if limited relationship with his passengers — beyond the morning greetings, there are conversations, and questions, and even shalach manos come Purim.
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