A Day Full of Surprises: From Scammers to Winged Wonders
Have you ever had a day where you encounter unexpected surprises that challenge your perception of the world and its inhabitants? Well, my day was filled with just that. From working to fix a temple's water tank to spotting a bird I had never seen before, and successfully outsmarting a potential scammer, every moment brought a new learning experience.
Encountering Nature's Wonders
On an early morning stroll, while I was on my way to catch the cab, I noticed water overflowing from a temple's water tank. I immediately approached the Panditji, hoping he would address the issue. This sight was not new, as I had reminded him of this before, yet this time he suggested switching off the motor, showing a surprising level of ignorance about the issue.
Feeling a bit frustrated, I decided to take a break and look for the colorful bird that I had seen for the very first time. Using the internet, I searched for “blue feather brown body bird” and discovered that it was a Brown-breasted Kingfisher. This bird, known for its vibrant colors and typically found near water bodies, appeared in the smoky Delhi weather. It was a surprising encounter, making me wonder whether humans and animals are becoming more global due to factors like climate change, urbanization, or human activity.
Dealing with Scammers: A Cautionary Tale
Later in the day, my father published an advertisement on OLX, and within minutes, he received a call from a buyer. The first red flag was the speed of the response. The buyer inquired about an online payment before even visiting to inspect the product—a clear sign of a potential scam. My father, who was not paying much attention, asked for my UPI ID and shared it, knowing the possibility of a scam but choosing to play along.
The scammer took it a step further by asking for a test payment to ensure the funds were in the correct account. Instead of falling into the trap, we decided to be suspicious and deny the request to scan a QR code. My father's initial reluctance to be suspicious turned to suspicion when the scammer insisted on using the QR code, which he declined to scan.
Feeling disappointed, I suggested to my father that he let me handle the conversation with the scammer in a polite manner. I moved to another room to discuss with the scammer, following my friends' advice from high school and college. I used words like 'gajab satisfaction' (excellent satisfaction) to impress upon the scammer the ease of our potential transaction.
During the call, my brother, who had been eavesdropping, reminded me to be cautious and stay alert. His warning was timely and a good reminder that vigilance is key in today's digital world.
A Lessons Learned Day
This day was a mix of surprises and learning. From witnessing the waste of water resources to spotting a rare bird, and dealing with a scammer, it was a reminder that the world we live in is constantly changing. It teaches us to be aware of our surroundings and stay vigilant, whether we are on the streets or online.
So, what entertained you today? Was it a rare bird sighting, a thwarted scam, or perhaps something entirely different? Share your story and let us know in the comments below!