a group of us we shopping, roaming about the city of amsterdam, shopping and adoring our environment, when we were approached by a man in dirty (but not tattered) clothing. his first question was whether or not we were americans. when we answered yes, he proceeded to tell us an elaborate - but not entirely unrealistic - story. apparently he had been born in amsterdam but had lived most of his life in new jersey. (i don't remember why he said he was back in town). however, moments before, he had been in a back alley, buying drugs from some locals.
(he proceeded to reach inside his coat pocket and reveal said drugs to us. needless to say, i was a bit nervous at this point.)
he told us that somewhere between the alley and the street we were currently on, all of his money, credit cards, identification had disappeared. he assured us, in a thick jersey accent, that he was telling the truth, and that all he was hoping for was a little change to call home and have some money wired over.
at this point, some skeptical glances were being shared among the members of our shopping group. where could his wallet have seriously gone? however, after only a second's hesitation, my friend ronnie stepped up with a palm-ful of change. in seconds, i handed over another few coins - all i had at that point. the man thanked us extensively and scurried away.
the others joked and laughed at what suckers ronnie and i were, the way we had just allowed ourselves to be scammed like that. ronnie laughed and shrugged it off, saying he hated change in his pocket anyway. i laughed too, but said nothing.
the way i see it, there was a chance that man was telling the truth, and if he was, i can only imagine what a terrifying situation his would be. i'd hope that some stupid college kid would spare me some change too.
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