Trevor Laffan: If a stranger called for a glass of water, what would you do?
Columnist Trevor Laffan reflects on the changing social norms regarding personal safety and hospitality in the modern era. He contrasts the current climate of caution with the more open, trusting community atmosphere of the past.
Why it matters
The piece highlights the erosion of traditional community trust and the impact of modern security concerns on daily social interactions.
ALARM BELLS? If a stranger arrives at your door, it’s best to be cautious, says Trevor Laffan
Trevor Laffan There was a story doing the rounds on social media during the recent spell of hot weather.
It concerned a young lad who was out walking in the countryside with his mates when he began to feel ill. Suspecting it was dehydration from the heat, he called to a house to ask for a drink of water.
The story goes that the person who answered the door took one look at him and promptly closed the door again, leaving him high and dry.
The young lad walked away and related the story to his mother when he got home and she posted it online.
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