A balancing act

Was in SF last week and my colleague P forgot his suitcase, including a brand new iPad, passport and wallet in a taxi. In short everything but the suit he was wearing. Now SF is nowhere as big as London but, nonetheless, slightly bigger than Cobham. Some would say even slightly more . . . urban, with the respective crime rate and economic disparity. All P could remember was that the cab was yellow. As you will know, not the most unlikely colour for an American taxi. And still, 4 hours later, P had the suitcase and all delivered to his hotel room by the driver.

Now, you could say it was sheer luck. Most people did. I considered it an affirmation of my belief that, in essence, people are good.

The problem is that, whilst I firmly believe in the goodness of man, it is difficult to establish a balance between giving people the benefit of the doubt and doubting them enough to avoid falling prey to those who do not live up to these standards. It is even more difficult as a father, trying to give his kids the confidence to face the world whilst protecting them from its evils. Unfortunately, I cannot say I am getting it right. A real worry.

PS 795km down. 205km to go.