Yesterday I saw something that made me feel really sad inside. It was half nine at night and very dark in the area outside Connolly Train Station in Dublin on a Sunday. My brother and I decided to run to the nearest corner shop to try break change for the bus. As we approached the door, a group of  young teenagers pushed passed us, I could smell weed off of them and they were being really loud so I just shared a look with my brother that said ‘stay out of their way’.

Luckily my brother was with me or I honestly probably would have left the shop in a panic as it was a very uncomfortable atmosphere; and soon it was clear as to why. The boys, not discreetly, but in plain sight to my brother, the cashier and I, started robbing items from the shop. They were grabbing anything near them and laughing at how helpless the cashier was. I felt awful at the look of fear in the cashier’s eyes as one of them mumbled something to him at the till. I wanted to do something. I wanted to say ‘Stop it, what are you doing? Can’t you see this man is just trying to get on with his job, why does he deserve this?’ But felt that could provoke a worse situation. So I didn’t say anything, my brother didn’t say anything, and the cashier most certainly said nothing. I felt relieved after they ran from the shop in their pack. I felt at ease that my brother was with me. I still found myself clutching my bag tighter than before.

So, I guess that little experience was a small bit of a shock/eye opener for me. I realised this man might see this all of the time, or worse. It made me realise the power of groups, the fear and pressure they can bring to individuals, making them feel helpless. I thought about how terrified I would have been if I was in that shop on my own, or worse, if I was that person behind the till. Would you speak up and say something? Or would it matter at the end of the day?

I guess, kindness is the only thing we can all do to try make any bit of a difference or say something if it feels safe to do so. I believe in kindness and respect; send a message of reassurance to someone in need,  be nice and never make someone feel scared or disheartened. Be aware when you are a part of a group how you might unintentionally intimidate others around you.

That’s my rambling rant over. I guess we can always judge people with how they treat a waiter/cashier.

Over and out,

Saoirse.