Day 28: Random Event in Chinatown

I spent today with Alyssa again! We went to San Francisco to hang out and look for clothes for my Seohyun cosplay for KCon. That was the plan, anyway. But something more interesting than our shopping spree happened today.

When we arrived, we wandered through Chinatown to look for a reasonable place to eat. We had stopped at a restaurant to read the menu and prices on the window when very old Chinese man wearing a hat stops and says, “Are you looking for a place to eat? This place is too expensive! Let me show you a better one.” 

Alyssa and I were kind of shocked, but since we had each other, we decided to humor him a little. If things started to get risky, we would head back to Union Square and drive back to Berkeley.

The old man had a heavy accent, and it was difficult to understand what he said sometimes. He used to teach at a high school, and had been living around the area for 30+ years. He took us around a couple of places, ending with a Chinese restaurant. While we ate, he wrote our names and other words in Chinese characters, and talked to us about books and history. He didn’t have a television or computer, and he hardly listened to the radio.

I started to wonder if this is what he did every day—look for wandering tourists and showing them the cheapest places in Chintown. When he brought us the tray of food from the cashier, I was suspicious. Was there something wrong with the food? Would he order a lot on purpose? What did he want from us?

I felt ashamed. All the stories and warnings I’d heard over time had made me suspicious of something that could’ve simply been a kind gesture. We asked how much the food was, and he said $13. We gave him $15. Then he left us with his name and number, in case we were in the area again and wanted information or directions.

When he left, I was relieved. Nothing bad had happened apart from some awkwardness, and I was glad Alyssa was there with me. Still, I could feel a tight jerk on my heartstrings. I knew I wouldn’t go to San Francisco—let alone Chinatown—that often. Even if I did, I wouldn’t call his number because I’d heard way too many stranger-stories that end badly. But still…there was something about him. He was friendly and wise, and if he wasn’t talking, he was listening attentively. I really did appreciate his efforts, but I’m sad to say that I’m too afraid to let my guard down completely. 

I wish we didn’t live in a place where it’s normal (and encouraged) to scrutinize a stranger’s benevolence for ill intentions. If this is really what he does every day, I hope there are a few people who do call him up for lunch, or a chat. Even if it was just for a few minutes, I think it would really make his day.

P.S. Hope everything’s going well at home. Wish I can visit soon. Love and miss you all!

XOXO

Gabby