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Sunday, November 13, 2011

Walk With Kings But Don't Lose The Common Touch

Hmm, here is a story that last week opened my eyes to how different we are and how we can easily assume that all of us are intrigued by the same stuff. Last Saturday I decided to meet a friend for a drink in town. He had in his company two (beautiful) ladies with whom we chatted with about the various topics that people who have just met for the first time over a drink chat about. Politics, celebrities, weather, music and other stuff.

The conversation however took an interesting turn when, talking about public transport, I mentioned that I once had a conversation with someone who grew up in Nairobi but had never been in public transport until she finished her college education. I was thus surprised when one of the ladies confessed that she had never been in public transport (bus or matatu). I was a bit curious and tried to inquire whether, growing up she had never been curious and had the urge to jump into a matatu or bus and go whenever. No. Yes, I am aware that there are people who have been born into privilege but I assumed that even if your parents had you wrapped under a cocoon of privilege, there will be that "rebellious" streak to stray and see the "other" side of the world? How the rest of the country lived? No, she said, why should she see poverty? She asked. I was lost for word. Whenever I travel to any city or town on business, I usually refuse to be confined to my hotel room and conference facilities and try to go the "masses" side of town, to witness the pulse, the color of that town as I know these are not found on the posh side. No, she said, she is never that curious, not in the least interested.

This is in no away an attempt to judge someone or try to be pious and call others vain, just one of those times that I remind myself that we are different. As for me, "If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch;"

14 comments:

  1. Not just a little bit curious? Im amazed,maybe one day she will.

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  2. I totally agree with you. I always have the urge to find out and relate to others who are not like me. Personally, I think people who have no curiousity about others or a desire to help those who are not as privileged, are boring people. That's just my own opinion.

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  3. I agree with Joyful. I personally have no right to judge the poor rich lady but I can offer her my heartfelt and personal condolences. Life is way too short.

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  4. Joyful, I agree with the boring part. Life cannot just be about shopping and having 'fun'

    Woolie, I actually felt the need to offer personal condolences but was too polite in that situation...

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  5. Kenyansista, maybe one day...hope not a day too late though

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  6. Everything should be explored - I believe in that. Maybe that girl needs to be in the company of people like you and me and see the real world out there.

    Hope you've been well, OtienoHongo.

    Joy always,
    Susan

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  7. Susan, I am well. Hope all is well with you too. Yeah, she needs to get out more often

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  8. Wow. she is quite different. Mwambie atembee Nairobi alar!!

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  9. Wow! I'd hate to be her, really.

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  10. She is what she is. You just love to smell the grass; there's nothing wrong with either; it just is what it is, mehinks.

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  11. Ghafla, Kbaab and Bonyo, thanks for stopping by and leaving your comments. highly valued!

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  12. Why should she?
    Why SHOULDN'T she?

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  13. This incident applies soo much to the Nancy Baraza case, being grounded always gives you security that you wont hurt too much incase you fall...

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