look! the map signal!

Quote of the week: "I love maps, so I do." -- A visitor to my office this week, poring over this

 

I love maps also, which is one of the reasons I have written under the pseudonym mapgirl for some years now. The other reason is that is sounds vaguely superheroish, which secretly pleases me.

       

During years of living as my alter-ego, I have honed my special powers, which I previously detailed here. Today during my walk in City Centre, I discovered how I can spot people in need: they are standing on the street, puzzling over a map.

 

That is when I spring into action! Pow! Biff! Zap!

 

"Can I help you find something?"

• Yes, said two women from Holland. (Just wondered if they were walking the right way on Greater Victoria Street to get to City Hall. They weren't.)
• Yes, said the guy from England. (Wanted to get to St. George's Market.)
• Yes, said the couple from the Republic of Ireland. (Looking for a Bank of Ireland cash machine.)

 

Everyone seems very happy for the help. And I am so delighted that people are visiting Belfast! I am desperate for them to love it as much as I do. They probably forgive my exuberance Americanness when I tell them as much.

 

Then it's back to my humble life. I put on my glasses, slip back into the crowd, ever vigilant for the confused map-carrying traveller who may require directions.