Market Chronicles: A Hectic Day in Search of Okra

The other day, I went to the market to buy okra. I think the hype about okra’s health benefits on social media was growing. I don’t like going to the market because it’s not always a pleasant experience for me. Before I knew it, someone accidentally stepped on my toe. Ouch! My poor toe – I had already hurt the same toe the day before while cleaning the house.

“Walk faster woman.” That was not polite, right?

He didn’t apologize either. I’m sure that’s market chronicles. Two steps ahead, a bra vendor aggressively grabbed my hand.

 “Ma’am, I have the latest design in town,” he tried to woo me in a manner that disgusted me.

Worse still his hat made him look like a clown. I gave him a sharp stare, then withdrew my hand quickly.

β€œHey, don’t be so arrogant. I know you haven’t been tested for HIV,” he said with a loud laugh.

His statement baffled me. I walked past him with an attitude that suggested I didn’t take his words seriously.”

All this time, I had safely tucked my Samsung S24 Ultra into the waistband of my skirt. I also had my purse tucked in on the left side. The atmosphere of the market filled me with fear. As I entered the market, I bought some sandals from the first vendor to relieve my feet after a long day at work. I knew I needed to be well-prepared for the hectic market environment. Suddenly, a guy hit me with a heavy load. Although he didn’t say anything, his whistle served as a warning before he quickly moved away.

“Can you model somewhere else?” The remarks came from a nearby vendor. Damn, this was enough for a crazy Monday. The market was packed to the brim. I wished I could step aside and watch the whole market madness from a distance. At this point, I only needed to make several turns to reach where the Okra vendors were located. Sadly, I was losing hope of ever getting there.

It was a great relief when I finally reached the market exit. However, I had one more interaction with the guy who had carried my shopping bag. I reached for my purse and handed him Ksh 50.

“Why do you act so mean, ma’am?” His remarks followed me as I crossed the road.

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