"Portrait of Portland This is the city seen from the 30th floor of the US Bancorp building, where the Portland City Grill restaurant is located. The restaurant was quite crowded, and all the booths bordered windows overlooking the city. Since I had traveled from Seattle to attain such a view (digitally), I was determined to get some photographs, even if it meant having to ask customers in the middle of their meals. Yes, it was bound to be awkward as I scrambled through the crowds of residents and tourists to find a good vantage point. Luckily, one gentleman was sitting by himself at a booth overlooking the vista you see here. I decided to simply inquire if he would mind me taking a few shots. He was very pleasant and said he was waiting for his girlfriend to arrive so it wouldn't be any problem. As I took photos of the city, he started to explain the history and details behind the urban planning of downtown, which was very interesting. We probably talked for about 10 minutes, and he thanked me for being a good listener, saying most people do not seem to care about how a city comes to be what it is. I said it was I who should be thanking him because he was so kind to let me interrupt, and for the best gift I had received that day. When he asked me what I meant, I explained it was my birthday (and it was!) and he had helped to deliver the gift I wanted -- this photograph. He wished me a happy birthday, and a happy stay in Portland. After the brief crossing of paths, we both returned to the regular routines of our individual lives. Enjoy, and never be afraid to ask! Humility and politeness do go a long way, as preposterous as that may sound in this day and age. Nevertheless, occasionally the gesture is returned and you both gain something from the exchange. That's how life should be, I suppose." |
