The Human Essence

While journeying through France and the Benelux countries, I opted for a rental car from Paris Orly Airport. After exploring the wonders of Flanders, Luxembourg, and northeastern France, I parked the diesel-powered Opel at Enterprise. This remarkable piece of German engineering was generously provided to me by the rental company for the past two weeks.

As I stood outside the Enterprise office, I observed a slender Frenchman briskly attending to various vehicles and explaining lease terms to new clients. He seemed in no rush to inspect my car for any scratches or dents, nor did he prioritize refueling it. It was understandable, considering I had already paid for these services. Why would he hurry to take back my rented Opel when there were plenty of potential customers around? t was evident that his focus was primarily on attending to new clients rather than those who had already utilized the service.

However, let's shift the attention from him to us.

The multi-level parking lot, constructed with concrete, housed numerous companies like Enterprise, and it certainly wasn't designed for racing. Suitcase-toting passengers and travelers with bags over their shoulders were bustling about, loading their belongings into rented cars or unloading them from other vehicles. Children could be spotted in some cars, and interestingly, nearly half of them were being driven by women. The parking lot was bustling with activity, creating an anxious atmosphere. In an attempt to prevent accidents, speed bumps were installed every ten meters.

In theory, it appeared to be a commendable idea, aiming to deter speeding. However, in practice, it proved to be entirely ineffective.

The human nature dictates that we hold a special regard only for things that personally belong to us. Unfortunately, rental cars do not make it onto that list.
Consequently, travelers from all corners of the world zoomed across the multi-level parking lot at Orly airport. Despite the presence of "sleeping policemen" (speed bumps) before them, they effortlessly sailed over them without even considering slowing down. Their speed and recklessness caused the concrete beneath my feet to tremble.