In recent days, I went to Dublin on the train – all went very well until I got on the Luas. I was kindly offered a seat near the door. Then came our first stop – Museum. Two men got on – it was obvious that they were seriously ‘using’ and were out of control. They began to fight, use obscene language and shout. We heard that they were revisiting old issues they had when they were in Clover Hill Prison. The exchange was violent, physical and abusive. The tram stopped. As one of those broken and wounded men was being led away, he threw up on top of my head… I was a mess and in shock. Unfortunately, my glasses, (my most precious possession did not escape!)
In that darkness, however, a light shone; the kindness of the people who came to my assistance will touch me forever – clean-up, hair wash, offers of towels and tee-shirts from their day’s purchases………When things were taken care of, I was escorted to a welcome coffee!
That night, I had much food for reflection – sadness for the authors of my distress, but most of all heartfelt gratitude for the kind, helpful, caring of the wonderful people that came to my aid with such warmth and generosity. I will always remember their giftedness.
Despite all the problems in our society, nothing can ever stifle the goodness that is all around us and in us all.
May it soon be evident in the two men who joined us at ‘Museum’!
B. O ‘S