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See it, say it, sorted – By @CharlesHueWill1

By Charles Hue Williams

 

See it, say it, sorted

 

See it, say it, sorted, is a message that has been vilified for its annoyance whilst simultaneously being respected for its effectiveness. A statement ingrained into London living, but one that should actually go far further then the public safety it refers to. 

My first term at SCA has inspired me in so many ways, but most recognisably in my awareness. I feel constantly alert and on the lookout, not because I’m worried for my personal welfare. It is because, since attending the school, I have been reminded of what a fascinating world we live in. I realise that everything noticed has a story. Most things appreciated are born from a decision and it would be irresponsible of me not to be curious. 

One thing that has accompanied this development however is a need to share. I recently took a tube outing, in which I found myself sitting next to a woman in a beautiful Burka. I had never seen a design like it. A clean white, overlaid with splashes of patched colour, like a walking Jackson Pollock. I felt urged to tell her how much I admired the wardrobe choice, but here came my dilemma. She was plugged into her phone, headphones locked in and face pressed against the screen. How was I meant to break through the bubble she had enclosed around her? I wasn’t about to wave in her face or start prodding, but how else was I meant to get her attention? At the time it didn’t seem worthwhile to go through the rigmorol of stopping her current activity, to pop out her head phones, all in an attempt to tell her I liked the outfit. In hindsight however I regret keeping my silence. 

I did get me thinking though. Was I worried about inconveniencing her or more the fact that I could potentially cause a scene myself? 

A friend shared a story with me, reminiscing when she had admired an old lady’s pink suit. So much that she felt urged to stop the car mid traffic, get out and tell her. All though clearly an act that required no self shame, the part that really resonated with me was the lady’s response. She went onto explain that this is the first time she had had the confidence to dress up since the passing of her husband and how much it meant that someone had taken notice. The irony is that I’m sure many people noticed, but no one was compassionate enough to pass on their praise. This demonstrates the society we are a part of. Where the majority choose to isolate themselves from reality. Preferring to live in a digital world built upon a system of likes and shares. Yet we can’t seem to find the confidence or motivation to follow the same practice where it really counts, face to face. 

Just this weekend, my partner and I were approached by a South African mother whilst commuting. She was intrigued by our conversation surrounding the course. Her single question, ‘What are you studying?’ Lead to a twenty minute chat about life, London and the awkwardness of English commuters. It was refreshing to be approached and a great pleasure to have a stranger show interest in something I cared for. 

The beauty is that people are just picking up on your passion and therefore the conversation comes easily. You both share an appreciation of the same thing and allow your walls of privacy 

to drop for a moment. A moment in which you make a new connection, discover a friend or even just hear a story. It is these moments that weshould live for. The new experiences that act as sustenance for our souls. 

Next time you appreciate something and it’s a part of someone else, I urge you to let them know. As a busy city we should be talking to each other, not hiding away. You never know, you might just make their day. 

See it, say it, sorted! 

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