Went to KLCC just before lunchtime, so I can get in time for an event which starts at 2 pm. I got there slightly after 1 and decided to find a place to grab quick lunch. Although I go to this remarkable landmark every other week, I hardly ever eat at the shopping complex - most of the time food is catered at the office where I have meetings.
As I looked around, I noticed a guy looking at me. I didn't really pay attention - could be that I look familiar, or maybe he was looking for something...
Then he approached me and asked the direction to the train station. Not familiar with the area myself, I apologized and suggested for him to ask the stall vendors. He said thank you, but instead of walking off, he started telling me about himself - that he just got transfered from another state, that today is his first day, that he wandered quite far from he should, and so on. I kept walking and he kept following me, excitedly telling me about his new job.
When I got to one of the stalls, I got in line and told him "I stop here". He said ok, and walked off. While queuing, I noticed a café and decided to have lunch there instead. After a few steps, someone yelped "there it is, train station!". Surely enough, I was shocked to hear that familiar voice. I thought he left, how come he's still behind me? After that, (yeah, you guessed right) he went on with his story - this time about his LRT experience! I was glad the café is nearby (although I admit I wished it were much nearer) so when I got there we departed, for real this time.
While I had my meal, I kept thinking about that guy and the things he shared. How he was so excited about living in the city, his promotion, new office and all. Having worked for a company which interstate transfer among the staff is quite a regular practice, this guy's story is actually simply another typical routine. Based on experience, it won't be long before the city's fast life gets to him. Then even the promotion and increased pay isn't all rosy anymore. But of course, there are those who prefer KL and decided to stay here way past their retirement.
But it's not the content of his story that got me. It's the fact that he didn't mind telling a complete stranger about himself; this stranger who could take advantage of him. Just what drove him to do so - naïvity, perhaps? He came from a small town where, stereotypingly, the people are less twisted. Perhaps that's why he's so trusting? Wouldn't it be nice to have that kind of atmosphere, safe and trusting, in the midst of our so-called civilised community? I haven't lived long enough but I can tell that's something you don't find everyday. That once you find it, it's worth more than gemstones (hypothetically speaking only, it can never be true for a materialistic like me!).
Whatever it is that caused him to open up to me, I'm really honoured to be at the receiving end. My life is never going to be big or happening enough, but I dare say it's colourful because of the stories and experiences others have shared with me.
So thank you Mr Whatever-Your-Name-Is, for sharing your life story and adding colour to my life.
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