Train Station Encounters
Encounter #1:
I’ve been impressed but humbled by the blind people here in Japan. They go to work, race you to the train stations, and they’re all alone! But despite having those walking sticks and those yellow protruding road guides, I believe that they get through each day with the help of other people. And I’m glad I was able to help one. At first, he bumped onto me and he apologized. He was rushing towards the open train door, so I thought he already “memorized” the direction. But it was too late to realize that I was wrong… when he bumped again to a post! I looked around and nobody attempted to help him. So I just grabbed a portion of his backpack and gently guided his way to the train door. I hated myself for not saying anything. But what can I say? In situations like this one, I seem to lost my ability to speak in Japanese.
Encounter #2:
As I was making my way to the platform, a man, probably in his 60’s, approached me and tried to talk to me. So I took my earphones off and tried to listen to him. But he was speaking a language that was completely new to me! So I just shook my head while saying “wakarimasen” (I don’t understand). He also shook his head and approached another person. As I was waiting for the train in the platform, it occurred to me that maybe he was trying to ask for some coins. I remembered he was holding a train ticket, with the minimum fare on it. Maybe he had lost his wallet somewhere. I had the urge to try to find him again but the train arrived. So I just prayed he was able to find someone who could understand and help him.
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July 27th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Hello shiera,
Touchingly, warm and human stories, Yes, in such situations, where language is a “barrier”, it is difficult. I have been in similar situations before and therefore I understand what you felt.
What makes it even worse is that as a seasoned traveller, it is sometimes difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff. So, there are those hesitant moments of “do I or do I not?” There are stories of many who were waylaid by the acts of generosity.
I love the rich gold and deep red-brown coloured WP theme you chose for your BLog. Really soothingly intense and grabs visual attention.
Have a lovely Sunday there!
July 31st, 2008 at 1:46 am
taihen desu…
July 31st, 2008 at 7:55 am
mabait ka pa rin ^^
sunjuns last blog post..Spot the T-Shirt