Why did that stranger ask ME for the time?

I’ll never forget the first time I rode the bus downtown in Portland. Arriving at a stop, a smiling gentleman approached me on his way out the door. He quickly looked at my nametag and asked, “Excuse me Scott, but do you know what time it is?”

Checking my watch, I replied back, “3:15.”

“Thanks!” He smiled at me and then walked off the bus.

This 10 second conversation opened my eyes to WHY front porches are so important. This brief and seemingly menial interaction not only illuminated the reason that I wear a nametag, but showed me that this world truly DOES have potential to become friendlier.

Why?

Because the guy was wearing a watch.

He was wearing a watch. Maybe it was broken and he just happened to leave it on his wrist. Maybe he forgot he was wearing it. Maybe it was running slow. But I think his watch was working fine. I think all he wanted to do was interact with another person.

LET ME ASK YA THIS…

What memorable moments have you experienced on public transportation?

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Scott Ginsberg
Author/Speaker/That guy with the nametag
www.hellomynameisscott.com