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Lost and Found: A Heartwarming Encounter on the Streets of Rochester
2nd October 2025 • The James Brown Commentary • James A. Brown
00:00:00 00:01:00

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Ever found yourself in a moment that leaves you scratching your head and wondering, "What just happened?" Well, that’s exactly what we’re diving into today! I share a story about a chance encounter with an older Asian woman who was utterly lost, armed with nothing but a hand-drawn map and a smile. For twenty minutes, we played the ultimate game of charades, trying to help her find her way. It’s funny how some people flicker in and out of our lives, leaving us with more questions than answers, right? So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s chat about those fleeting moments that stick with us long after they’re gone!

A year ago, I found myself taking a casual stroll near the Freddie Sue Bridge in downtown Rochester, New York, when an unexpected encounter turned my day into a mind-bending puzzle. There she was, this older Asian woman, waving at me with a look that screamed, "Help!" Now, as someone who considers themselves a decent human being, I couldn't just ignore her. But here's the kicker: her English was more limited than my ability to resist a slice of pizza, and she had this hand-drawn map that looked like it came straight from a treasure hunt! For twenty solid minutes, I was like a GPS on caffeine, pointing and tracing routes in the air, trying to guide her home. But despite our best efforts, she was as lost as I am when I try to find a matching sock in my drawer! She smiled, thanked me, and drove off, leaving me with a million questions swirling in my head. Did she make it home? What was her story? It's funny how some people can flicker into our lives, leaving us with more questions than answers. Got a similar story? Hit me up at jamesabrown.net or call me at 585-371-8865!

Takeaways:

  • In life, we encounter fleeting moments with strangers that leave us pondering their stories.
  • Helping someone in need, like the lost woman I met, can create lasting questions.
  • It's fascinating how brief interactions can spark curiosity and connection with others.
  • If you've ever helped a stranger, you know the feeling of wondering about their journey.
  • Sometimes, a simple gesture of kindness can lead to a lifetime of unanswered questions.
  • Sharing experiences and stories can build bridges between us, even if just for a moment.

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Transcripts

Speaker A:

This is the Daily Note.

Speaker A:

I'm James A.

Speaker A:

Brown.

Speaker A:

About a year ago, I was walking near the Freddie Sue Bridge in downtown Rochester, New York.

Speaker A:

That's when I saw her, an older Asian woman waving at me.

Speaker A:

Her English was limited and she had no phone or GPS, just a crude hand drawn map.

Speaker A:

For 20 minutes I tried to help her, pointing and tracing routes for her, but it wasn't enough.

Speaker A:

She was truly lost.

Speaker A:

She smiled at me, thanked me, and drove off.

Speaker A:

I still wonder if she made it home and why she stopped me.

Speaker A:

Some people pass through your life like a flicker, but leave questions behind that you carry with you.

Speaker A:

So what about you?

Speaker A:

Have you ever had an instance like this?

Speaker A:

-:

Speaker A:

On that note, I'm James A.

Speaker A:

Brown, and as always, be well.

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