Categories: uncategorized
Date: 10 March 2007 14:01:41
So, I stood at the station the other day, deciding between running to the train and hopefully getting on it, or going to the loo which would have meant I definitely missed the train (they come every 15 minutes, but you know, being a city chick and all that). I decided to run for the train, else I would spend money while waiting for the next one, which isnt hard to do at this particular station, with LUSH shop on site. Ho Hum.
Anyway, I JUST got on the train as the doors beeped. And plonked myself down opposite an old looking man, trying to gain composure and not look like I had just legged it through the station which felt like a mile long...
Very antisocially, I thought "oh good" , time to put in the ipod earplugs, get my book out and be still for 15 minutes, until the old man spoke. I have to admit, I did think " here we go " having had many a total random and weird conversation with people on said train before.
He started off his conversation by saying "that was close dear", and I smile, nodded, and said yep, but just made it. Smiling :). As you do right?
He then went on to tell me about how the station has changed over the years and since when he was a little boy. He then went on to tell me how he lived in the city as a little boy, until he got evacuated in the war. And how he ha never been back to his old house.
I have to say, he had my total interest and concentration by this point.
He then nearly got tearful on me (but didnt) and told me he couldnt get to see the old house as it was blocked off, which was good in a way, as he would have sat crying. His words.
Anyhow, as the story went on, with me adding occasional "wow's" or questions, he went on to tell me he was the oldest in his university. I asked how that worked.
Turns out this 80 something year old man is at university taking an art degree. Amongst the young un's in his class, there he sits, day in , day out, learning about art.
We also got talking about digital photography ipods, apple macs, and all things technical.
I have to say, I was genuinely disappointed when a little while later, he got off the train.
I sat thinking about him on the rest of my journey, and came to this conclusion ...
What an inspiring old man!