On lonely train rides home, I like to look around at the type of people there are, what people wear, how tired they look, and the litter on the floor... yes, this is how my story starts. As I rushed into the train right before the doors closed on me, a piece of paper on the floor caught my attention from the corner of my eyes. Maybe the train had shook it, or perhaps, this boy sitting down, with his big butt pocket opened, must've dropped it onto the floor. It was folded into fours, so I didn't know exactly what it was, or if he had actually dropped it. I thought oh well, it's just litter, and if it is his, then too bad. So I continued listening to my music and pondering to myself.
But! This darn piece of paper kept catching my eye. I couldn't stop looking at it and think What IF this paper was this boy's? What IF this paper was an important document or homework? What IF he gets off this train soon and leaves this paper forever behind? Would it be my fault that he had the chance to pick it up since he was unaware of its disappearance? What IF IT'S NOT EVEN HIS?? Why is my gut telling me to ask him if that piece of paper is his? Even if it's not his, then I'd feel comfortable knowing that I tried to save his life. Okay, I shall ask him.
Yes, all this went through my mind because of one folded piece of paper on the floor. And so after three train stops, I have decided to take action.
I poked/tapped the boy (btw, he was not a boy, more like a teenager or a little older?) and said, "Is that paper yours?"
He looked at me and the paper, and tilted his head in confusion. Perhaps he didn't hear me, so I repeated myself, "Is that piece of paper yours?" He looked doubtful, and shook his head slightly. But he picked up the paper to check anyway.
Inside the paper was a WANTED poster with a reward. BOY, WAS I EMBARRASSED. He shook his head and handed me the paper. I said "Oh, I'm so sorry..." He smiled and laughed it off a little.
"...."
"So... uh... I'm not sure what to do with this... shall I drop it back on the floor?"
He shrugged and laughed at me (softly). I laughed at myself (softly). I held on to that piece of paper for the rest of the train ride. I tried to look busy with my itouch as he was probably still laughing at me inside.
Twas a very awkward train moment. I hope nobody else witnessed this. Why must I be like this? I have no idea.
