Asking for assistance from strangers

Have you tried asking help for directions from strangers when stuck in an unfamiliar place? I know some friends who would immediately reply that they would rather get there themselves the hard way than ask for help from people they don’t know. That’s understandable considering there are bad guys lurking around while on the road. Me? I usually like taking shortcuts (especially when in a hurry) and ask right away. Of course, I choose carefully whom I ask – mostly security guards, ladies, and the elderly.

Just recently I got lost while on my way home, I think I fell asleep and woke up disoriented. I immediately went down the jeepney (a public utility vehicle) and rode in another one, this time mindful of my surroundings. Beside me was a guy in his 50s so I felt safe and kept asking him directions about my destination. He was helpful and assured me he’ll tell me when it’s time to go down.

During the trip, I asked him some questions such as how long it will take for me to arrive to where I’m headed. After entertaining my queries, he was now asking me some personal questions which made me uncomfortable, until he asked for my name, phone number and if we could be textmates. Yikes! Nawala tuloy respeto ko sa kanya. Anyway, I just smiled and politely refused though I thanked him for his help. I think he got my message. I really assumed that guys his age would be talking about some other sensible things such as their families and grandkids or even the current rice crisis, anything other than getting too personal.

That incident though won’t hinder me from asking for assistance from strangers next time, as long as the situation calls for it. During many of my trips, I’ve learned that there really are ‘angels’ along the way, people who are willing to help somebody they don’t know. It’s also a fact that there are some people who would take advantage of the helplessness of others along the way.