We all have the silent inquiry of whether or not the people would intervene in case something went amiss when we are out there. The news reports depict the world as being distant and cold, but day-to-day living creates a gentler narrative. And to experiment in a little society, we decided. It was nothing dramatic, nothing risky. Nothing but plain and mundane things when a bit of assistance could be required. We entered the parks, the grocery shops, the streets, and the bus terminals carrying ordinary issues. The next part was not accompanied by big oratory and heroes. It was in little things, in the swift looks and the acts that come out of the blue, which might have transformed our attitude towards people we do not know.
The dropped wallet moment
Another wallet was dropped in a pocket in a busy market, unknown to the owner. In a matter of seconds, a shoulder was tapped by a person, and they returned it. It could have been an instinct or possibly a habit. Either way, no one hesitated.
Asking for directions
The phones simplify the process of getting directions, but we intentionally requested to be given directions within a busy location. Others were in a hurry, yet quite a few turned out to stop, speak very calmly, and even indicate points of reference so that the road would appear clear.
The heavy grocery bags
We waited there outside a store, having some bags that seemed to be too heavy. Some of them were passing, but at some point, someone offered to take one to the car. It was not so much dramatic as merely reflective and silent, kindly.
The public transport test
We were standing on a packed bus, and there were few seats. A couple of stops on, somebody volunteered their place. It was not always the case, yet at that time, empathy appeared to be more powerful than inconvenience.
Dropping papers everywhere
In a puff of wind, papers flew about the sidewalk. It was embarrassing for like a second. Then two strangers crouched and assisted in picking them and grinned as though it were the very most natural thing in the world.
The phone with a dead battery
It was awkward to go up to a person and request that they make a quick call. This was not the opinion of everybody, of course. Nonetheless, a single individual nodded and passed his/her phone without being conspicuous.
The rain without an umbrella
We were taken by surprise by the rain and were standing in a small shelter. One of the strangers moved aside a bit and took up an umbrella, even trying to lean it to provide some shelter. It could have been some slight change, yet it was significant.
Carrying a large box alone
A big box placed outside one of the entrances caught the attention of some curious people. After that, a person requested whether help was required. The assistance was unobtrusive but consistent and honest.
The missed bus run
It was hopeless to run to a bus that had just begun its movement. One of the passengers who was close to the door indicated to the driver. The bus paused briefly. It could have been time, or perhaps group knowledge.
Looking visibly upset
Seating myself alone on a bench and looking afflicted elicited varying effects. Other individuals passed on without even looking; however, one individual came on to inquire whether all was well. Even that innocent inquiry was a warm one.
Asking for a small favor
Trust was tested by asking to watch a bag briefly. It is natural that not all people were comfortable. Nevertheless, some of them conceded because they might have thought that the majority meant well.
