Stalking Moe

It was unusually busy that day, on the street corner just opposite St. Paul’s cathedral. He stood beside me as we waited for the traffic lights to change.

Instinct compelled me to take his arm, or perhaps ask if he needed assistance - until I realized how well he maneuvered past the crowd when we crossed the street. He walked so briskly; never drawing attention to himself if not for his dark sunglasses and his silver cane that searched both air and ground before he took a step forward.

I ended up trailing him for a while, completely absorbed by how this amazing sightless man discerned his way by listening to the sounds of life around him. It was incredible to watch him instinctively avoid the puddle on his right, duck a little as he neared the scaffolds, stop by the newspaper stand to grab the Metro and pick up the penny he dropped on the street.

Wow! He must know this route like the back of his hand. He must have such a heightened sense of hearing. I tagged along, watching him closely until an unfamiliar voice grabbed my attention.

“How long are you going to keep following me?”. I froze; I didn’t know whether to pretend I wasn’t there or own up.

Finally, all I could come up with was, “Uh, I didn’t mean to follow you, I just…well…I…uh…”

He turned around and took off his sunglasses. “Cant a guy wear sunglasses and walk with a cane without everyone thinking he’s blind?”, he asked, obviously exasperated.

“Oh…..so you’re not…….blind?”, I said rather stupidly.
“Just a guy with shades and a cane, I’m afraid,” he said.
“Oh…..That’s a shame! I was getting so impressed.…..” I blurted.
He tried not to laugh but tactful little me realized what I’d said and I burst out laughing anyway…. it's very random, but that’s how Moe and I became friends.