Good Samaritan

Driving home in the early hours last Sunday, I was forced into the embankment of the sidewalk by an unknown driver of a white car. A bit stunned and more than a little afraid, I watched with growing concern as people began to surround my car. "Where did all these people come from?" I wondered. My real fear, however, stemmed from the fact that the streets were isolated except for the group of men beginning to surround my car.

I stayed inside my car for what seemed minutes, in actuality it was only seconds. The men outside my car began to try to open the doors. I imagined the worst. I decided to conquer my fears and open the door. I did and the men walked around with me as I inspected the damage to my car. I asked if anyone knew where I could find a phone to call for assistance. I was escorted by half the men and the others said they would watch the car while I made the call.

Two hours later, I was still at the scene of the accident. The group of men had now become only one. He watched over me while I waited for assistance that never came (they couldn't find me). A tow truck passing on the opposite side of the road was hailed and arrangements were made to tow my car. I climbed into the cab along with the good Samaritan who had stayed with me throughout this ordeal. We arrived at our destination. I paid the tow truck and tried desperately to convince the young man who had been such a comfort and assistance to take money. He refused.

All I know about the young man is that he works for the Shangri-La Hotel and that he helped a very, very frightened woman. I am in great debt to this young man. His unselfish actions have reinforced my faith in the compassion and generosity of the Indonesian people that the irresponsible conduct of the hit and run driver had all but erased. Thanks to the young man, I will never describe my unfortunate accident as "an Indonesian driver ran me off the road". Instead, I will explain, "a driver ran me off the road and the Indonesian men who surrounded my car, and especially one in particular, were the kindest and of the most incredulous assistance. I don't know what I would have done without them." I will not soon forget the overwhelming generosity extended to me. Their time, patience, and kartu telepon (never leave home without one) helped me regain composure and a sense of well being. Thank you whoever you are.

SILVIA E. MOORE

Jakarta