When a civilian discovers a United States Marine weeping at a Big Boy restaurant should one ask what's wrong?

Brianna

Instead of thinking about civilian and marine... just think human to human. If i were to see someone sitting alone, crying... i would go up and ask very quietly and nicely if he'd like to talk about it or if i could sit with him (quietly) until he was finished.

Marines are people and human... they cry when they are truly hurting, just like anyone else. To put them above crying means you take away the idea that they are a human being.

if he told me that he'd prefer to be left alone, i would honor that wish, but be near enough in case he changed his mind.

banjo

Soooo, did the civilian ask?

I would have handed him Kleenex and offered a hug, no questions.

Kembo Kenyatta II

Erudite is a troll! Not the sharpest knife in the drawer, 1 bottle short of a six-pack,etc....
Bellevue is looking for you, erudite!

Bridey

Maybe not ask what's wrong, but ask if there is anything that you can do to help or if they need someone to talk to. Be there for a stranger the same way you would for a friend. If more people did that, the world would be a much nicer place.

stan j

No. Leave him alone.

Freemason AF & AM

No. Trust me, just leave them alone.

It could be something simple, or he could be having some real troublesome issues.

The best thing to do is just leave them alone. I understand you have good intentions and want to help, but the best thing to do is just leave it be. If you feel compelled to do something, then just thank them for their service and offer to pay for their meal...but DON'T ask any questions. If they at this point open up to you...then feel free to ask.

lordallyt

I agree 100% with Bridey,
I think just being there shows compassion.
Do unto others as you would have done unto you!!

â™¥â™¥do fairy tales come true?â™¥â™¥

maybe not come straight out and ask whats wrong, but perhaps thank him for his service, and pay for his meal =)

Happy Penguin

No, no more so than you should if you see anyone else crying in a restaurant.

Maybe his girlfriend stood him up? Maybe his father just died or his sister gave birth and he is actually very happy - maybe his pet got run over or his best friend passed away, or his house burnt down.

One could go on speculating for years, but if he needed support he would have gone to friends, and if he needed time out, he would be well, alone...

t p

Hard question!
He may resent it or appreciate it, .....perhaps the person above who said pay for his meal ..or maybe buy him a drink without asking questions, that may the best option.

dixie_down_under

Yes, but it would be better to ask if you can help. Clearly, something is wrong.

Common Sense

Sure, why not ?

Nissa

i think that one should, because its rare that marines cry. maybe something happened. they might not want your help, but they will greatly appreciate it if you do. you might make a good freind