10 August 2005

Don't You Wanna Give Me a Ride?

Normally hitchhikers, for the most part, seem to amble along the side of the road with one arm slightly extended and maybe their forefinger pointing downward. Very laid back. Perhaps you'll give them a lift and perhaps you won't. Either way, no biggie.

Yesterday as the bus trundled me towards home, I saw a man marching down the street with one hand high in the air and all five fingers spread wide apart, as though he was indicating someone to stop. Except that he was walking with, not against, the traffic and he didn't look around once. I had to assume he was looking for a lift - especially when he shook his arm a couple of times, presumably for emphasis.

"Dammit all, give me a lift, will you?!"

I had to admire his enthusiasm but I felt his intensity was probably working against him. Most people like to think the next time someone sees their face it won't be on a 'missing' poster.

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