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Why Am I Not That Someone?

One of the nice things about major bus stops is that both the people and buses keep moving, yet the place remains decently crowded, and always buzzing with life. It was 20:30 hrs when the bus I needed arrived. I was waiting closer to the bus so that I could take my turn after the rushing crowd boarded.

An elderly lady approached me and asked whether the bus would go to her stop. It wouldn’t. I patiently explained to her the right bus numbers that would take her there and told her that her bus would come in 5-10 minutes. I suggested her to stand slightly away, where her bus usually stops. Then, I boarded my bus and left.

You know, it is truly a blessing to be present in moments when elders feel the need for a helping hand. I have often seen college students carry bags for older people as they board buses. Even if the bag is almost weightless for the youngster, the gesture matters, and I am sure it helps the elder more than we imagine. It also leaves a warm feeling in the one who offers help.

Can everyone do these sorts of small acts? Not really. Though the act is very simple, the hardest part is our attention. Preoccupied with a thousand thoughts and things, we often fail to notice, recognise our opportunities right in front of us.

Let me return to the elderly lady. If she had missed the next bus, it could have delayed her by another half hour. There was a realisation struck me barely a minute after my bus had moved. Her need was not the bus numbers. She wouldn’t have been able to see them anyway. She needed someone to point out the right bus and help her board it. I could have done that. I had plenty of time that evening. 

But the moment passed. I even considered getting down at the next stop and coming back. But I convinced myself someone else would help her. That going back might be pointless. So, I let it go.

And just like that, it got added to my "If only I had..." list, one of those regrets that resurfaces every now and then with a sting. By the way, the question itself will help me, help you to be that someone next time.

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