Lessons learned from the lost wallet episode Some lessons learned from losing my wallet.
The local driver's license bureau was surprisingly efficient, and the young woman I dealt with there was friendly and made things simple. I explained my situation, showed her my passport, and within five minutes walked out of the bureau with a new driver's license for only $12.50.
The local Social Security Administration office has an armed security guard on duty. I thought that was weird, until I encountered some of the clientele. I can understand why the people working there, dealing with folks who are frustrated with the system, might feel more secure with a security guard on hand.
Sometimes, an angel appears. After de-boarding the plane in St. Louis and discovering my wallet was missing, one of my immediate concerns was finding cash to pay the parking bill. As I was on the phone, leaving a voice-mail for a friend who might be able to help out, a faculty member strolls by and says hello. I immediately blurt out, mid-voice mail: "Hey, can I borrow some money from you?" And then I explain my predicament, and he gives me $30 -- enough to cover the parking cost and give me some cash for the ride home.