[An update from March 10, 2013] I find things. As a kid I found Indian artifacts and detritus on Civil War battlefields (see post of 2/12/12). Today, I find wallets, money, cell phones and jewelry (see post of 8/1/12). Just by being observant.
In January 2013, I was at O’Hare Field with my family. Terminal 3 American Airlines. Standing in front of a self-service check-in thingee. Going through the ritual. And I looked down. There was a circular object on the floor. At first it looked like a small bare key ring. My gaze sharpened. I bend down and picked it up. It was a wedding ring. A man’s wedding ring. I looked around then squinted at the inside. There was an inscription – a date in 2002 and the name “Rosa.” I raised my voice inquiringly to those nearby — “Rosa”? The only looks I got were the curious — not the that’s me or someone I know look. I padded over to one of the AA stations (no. 39 as I recall) and I told the woman behind the counter that I’d found a wedding ring and that the inscription said “Rosa.” I asked if she could make an announcement. And she did. Inside the entire terminal. “Anyone losing an item that relates to Rosa please report to station thirty-nine.” Now I had to catch a plane so I gave the woman my card and a few details on the ring and went on my way. Ring in my left pocket. As we walked, I heard the announcement a second – then third – time.
Since reporting the find, I heard nothing. I called the TSA and AA Lost & Found stations. Gave them the details. American Airlines posted the find on Facebook – and it generated over 600,000 “hits.” Yet – no response.
I kept the ring on my desk at home. Waiting. In the bowl where I keep “found” money – and things. I wanted to get a call. I could envision Rosa standing there, arms akimbo, asking her hubby “where did you leave your wedding ring” and the poor soul is going “duhhh I dunno.” [Update – the ring remained on my desk for several years. It has now – regrettably – been deaccessed and the funds donated to a charity]. Sorry Rosa. . . . .
