I was out mowing the lawn this morning when reminded of a recent occurrence...
About 6 months ago I had also been mowing the lawn, when I flicked my hand against my left ear and the stud I was wearing fell out. Doesn't sound like much, but it was given to me by my mother some time ago and is very special to me. I got down on my hands and knees and started looking for this piece of jewelry.
One of the next cars that passed by did a U-turn and came back. It pulled up beside me and an older lady inside got out and came up:
"Sweetie - are you OK? Do you need me to call an ambulance?"
I thanked her and refused - explaining about the earring that I was looking for. She stopped for a few minutes and looked for the earring with me, but then apologized but said she had to go and wished me all the best for finding it. I found it just after she left.
I've watched a number of current affair shows where they have filmed people collapsing in the street and other people just walk by (ok - I can't reference to one particular show at the moment, but you must have seen some of these stories too!!). They indicate that, in this day and age, humanity and the care and consideration for other human beings is disappearing to the point to where it doesn't exist. I tend to disagree.
I believe that lack of humanity or caring for others (at least enough to call an ambulance if someone collapses) is the exception and not the rule. Any individual may say "BAH HUMBUG", but put that person on the pedestal, and I'm certain that their true caring colors will shine. Different conditions such as the influence of drugs, social pressures or disease processes such as mental issues may take away empathy or humanity for others. Still, remove those influences and the person underneath would have a good heart and be capable of caring for another human being.
In the meantime, with a tidier front nature strip, I will go, put on my uniform and care for my fellow human beings in the Emergency Department (I know - I get paid for it). Still, on the drive to or from, if I see a person collapsed by the side of the road, I'll hop out and offer a helping hand; and when it comes to it - I know you would too! :)