In Siem Reap, we would ride bicycles or take tuk-tuks to visit the Angkor temples every day. Whenever we passed by Angkor Wat, we would see locals enjoying picnics in groups. Following their example, my friends and I went to the local market. We bought some grilled meat, roasted bananas, fruits, and snacks. Then, we headed to a large grassy area to experience the casual atmosphere.
After laying out our picnic mats, it didn't take long before dogs, children, and other people approached us one by one. What made us really uncomfortable was the intense gaze of an elderly woman. As she stood nearby, we were unsure whether to invite her or not. We were afraid that the invitation might make her feel uneasy, so we just started eating on our own.
Before long, with only a few items left on our paper plates, the elderly woman gestured with her eyes, silently asking if she could have some. We nodded, and she packed the food. Then, she sat down beside us and began to eat.
At that moment, we felt a sense of guilt. How could we have been so indifferent and slow in responding to someone else's needs?