In a jeepney, why do people hate to sit behind or at the seat nearest to the driver? Various plausible answers are available. One, a person want to save time and distance (not to mention, the hassle in passing through legs and baggage of other passengers) in alighting. Two, some feel comfortable to sit in the rear end to save themselves from the discomfort of claustrophobia. Third, people would not want to serve as the “collector”—the medium through which the fare pass from the passenger to the driver and from the driver to the passenger.
The third reason is understandable because some of our co-passengers are insensitive to the feelings of others. Some forget to use words of request, instead brandish a tone order sans humility. Still some are just born proud that a simple request for help is construed as a humungous sacrifice.
In my quest for self development and transformation, I challenged myself to change my perspective—love what I hate, understand the enigmatic, smile when I am desperate. It has been an open secret that the true key to success lies in one’s attitude towards the events confronting him. So that, sitting behind or near the driver should be viewed in a positive way. Instead of avoiding that seat, grab it and fight for that little space because by occupying that part of the jeep you are rendering service to your fellow men. I made a resolution that instead of boggling my mind about the smirk of the people whom you pass on your fare or the yell of the people passing to you their fare, let it pass and think of the great favor you are giving them and the contribution who give to the social group you are in.
At the end of the day, you will realize how lucky you are because you are able to experience riding a jeep, seeing people around you while communicating with them. You should also learn to appreciate the simple things you see and the people you interact because these are the blessings scattered around which remain unnoticed. If you view things in that perspective, you will not be mindful of the scorching heat, or the settling dust, of the deafening noise, or the long wait. Most importantly, every time you step down that jeep, you will realize that instead of losing a part of you, the fact is you gained more—more fulfillment and altruism.
Adsum
12.15.2011
4:34 pm
