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I was waiting for SM City to open when I suddenly had to pee.
Since it was only a quarter before nine, the mall was still closed. But the traveler’s lounge was already
open. Hurriedly, I went inside and
politely (and gaily) asked the receptionist if I could use their comfort room
very quickly. To my chagrin, she told me I can’t. I thought I didn’t hear her right so I asked
her again, “Miss, I really need to go and pee? Please? ” To which she wryly
replied again, “Sorry Ma’am but the CR is exclusive for us and for those going
to the airport.” I was aghast. I swear
my urethra almost burst! Nowhere in her expression did I see a streak of
sympathy for a fellow woman aching to take a whizz. There were only the two of us in there. It wasn’t a busy time either and she was well
aware there was no other available CR within the vicinity. Should I have lied instead and told her yes, I
was a “traveler” heading to the airport to legitimize my need to use their
CR? No, it was just not right. I simply walked out the door sad – and hurt.
I was not left with a choice but to drive two kilometers back
to the office. I headed straight to the
CR and consequently shared my disdain with my officemates. Then, a realization suddenly hit me. You see, earlier this morning, I was reading
the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). I have read that story several times already
but it wasn’t until I was rejected at the Traveler’s Lounge that I came to
appreciate the significance of being a Good Samaritan.
The Samaritan and the victim were strangers to each other. But what was with the Samaritan that stirred
him to extend help (even going beyond what
he could afford to give)to a complete stranger? How often have I been a priest
and a Levite too to others in need? How
often have I too deliberately refused to look, to take notice, to reach out to
those in need?
I was a victim too
needing some comfort when I sought the receptionist’s consent. I wasn’t asking for too much either— only one
that was prompted by a basic, human need:
to be relieved. But that seemed
too much for her -- or for me too.
It was contemptible for me to assume that it was alright for me to seek kindness when I myself
hesitate to extend it readily. Oftentimes,
those who fall prey to me are my loved-ones.
Now all it took was a slapdash experience to awaken me into taking a renewed
perspective in life.
I thank God for having stopped me by today to remind me that I
should always endeavor to be kinder, gentler, and quicker to respond. Afterall, I cannot be a good neighbor unless I become a Good Samaritan.
Now I should get to work and make sure the CR is always spick and span. Anybody feeling the need to use it is most certainly welcome. ;-)
