July 19, 2002: Good Deed #2
I decided to get a little work done in an old location- the Columbia library. I took the 1 Train up from Houston Street, and got off at 110th Street. As I was leaving the station, I noticed that these two girls were standing by the steps with this kid in a wheelchair and all these bags. Of course, they had just realized that there was no elevator access at the station and were trying to figure out what to do. I want to say that I immediately offered to help, but my pathological shyness sort of left me standing there thinking about what to do. Luckily, one of the girls noticed and came over and asked if I would help. So I did- it took three or four trips to bring up all the bags and the wheelchair, but it was nice to help someone out on something that didn't involve the words "internet" or "e-commerce".
As I've now helped a disabled person and a cat in a single week, the question naturally suggests itself: should I make this a career? Sort of wandering around the greater metropolis looking for lost animals and people that need things carried up steps? I can also give pretty good directions- three or four people stop me every week asking how to get from one place downtown to another. Beyond the new career angle, there is also a deeper moral question- if someone asks you to do something and you do it, and it happens to be a good deed, is that less good than if you volunteered to do it without being asked? Quick- someone find a Talmudic scholar!
Comments
Do you think you're Amelie now, playing the do-gooder?
I helped an old lady push the non-working supermarket door. I did feel the glow of a halo after that. Later that day, I wanted to yell at the assholes who didn't immediately give up their subway seats for a small toddler and her mom (I was standing).
I helped myself to another serving of ice cream. Does that count?
I'd like to make more decisions on a moral basis, but I don't get shit done as it is. If I start worrying about whether the money I spend on TiVo would be better spent sponsoring third world children, I'm really going to get depressed.
answer: no.
I almost helped a lady with a baby carriage carry it down the steps at 110th Street- but she seemed like she had it under control. Negative Karma points?
Jake: I read this a couple of years after it happened. As a person using a wheelchair in the street, I most thank you for the good thing you did. Hard to find people willing to help or at least offer to help. The handicapped guy should make arrangements if he wants to go to this stop next time.
Cheers and Health
AviSefran
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