Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Humanity, in disguise

Years ago I was on a subway with all five kids, the youngest in a carrier and my toddler in a stroller. An exceedingly large and fierce-looking man got on. It was crowded. Eldest stood near me; Big Guy (who was about seven) and Dancer (five) were seated. The tough man towered above Big Guy, with do-rag and copious bling and $200 shades. My son gaped in a mixture of awe and raw fear. I silently prayed, "Don't stare! Don't stare!"

The huge man looked down at Big Guy, then glanced around angrily. He bellowed, "What's wrong with you people?" The whole car tensed, fearful of what was coming next. The man frowned.

"What's wrong with you people? Can't you see? This woman has all these kids and she needs to sit down! Get up and give her a seat!"


6 comments:

  1. And did someone in fact give you a seat??

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  2. What Maggie said, but I see it's been answered. (!)

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  3. I can picture even little old ladies and amputees (others who deserve the seats) moving to make room for you at his command.

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  4. I love hearing that. Just goes to show you can't judge a book by it's cover huh? That was awesome of him though. :)

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  5. I agree with Sillystarryeyes. I was talking to my (grown) son about a young man we met, covered in tats, "interesting" way of dressing, and I was saying what a really nice person he was. "It just goes to show", says I, "you can't judge a book by it's cover." My son replied, "Well, Mom! You should know that from raising Jesse and me!" [He and his brother, ever the free spirits, but wonderful people :)]

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