I don’t know why I wanted to post this image today - I had a rather interesting experience yesterday while sitting in a cafe in the Haight and I guess there was something about it that reminded me of this picture from the SFMOMA
I don’t think I am a bad person. I know everyone would like to think that about themselves, but I honestly believe it. I hold doors for people, I always wait until the little walk signal tells me I can cross - in general, I adhere to a generally good code of conduct.
Sitting in this cafe yesterday, however, caused me to doubt the levels of my tolerance. I walked in, purchased a cafe au lait and a breakfast bagel and proceeded to sit at one of the small tables in the centre of the cafe, next to a young gentleman reading a book. I took out my computer and typed, sipped and munched for the next half an hour or so. The young gentleman beside me bumped me as he stood to vacate the table, apologizing profusely as he left through the front door.
Immediately after he left, a man I assumed was homeless came in his wheelchair. Laden with garbage bags, he navigated his chair to the front of the cafe and asked if he could use my left over napkins. I said yes and he blew his nose, rolling to the till to order a coffee and a breakfast burrito.
After receiving his coffee, he took the table next to me, moving the chair over so that he could sit on the chair across from me. He commented on my rubber boots and I laughed, as they are rather spiffy. I continued to work and munch, working my way through my still ¾ full coffee.
At this point, the man began rummaging through his various bags, removing dirty towels he’d been using to keep himself dry. He spread them across the table next to me. At this point, he began removing his socks to let his feet air out.
This is when my level of tolerance was reached – I am very sensitive to scent and couldn’t stay there. I quickly chugged my coffee and packed up my stuff, feeling guilty the entire time. I left soon after.
Does my reaction make me a bad person?
