The Anti-Chugger

Urban dictonary defines a Chugger as:

Paid "charity" street worker (read: student) who has been trained to believe that they are carrying out a worthy task, improving peoples' lives by conning Joe Public out of their money for this week's Good Cause. Usually an agency worker where the agency takes a hefty cut of the hourly rate that the charity in question has paid for, whilst at the same time increasing profits by selling on details of those foolish enough to actually stop and sign up to said Good Cause.


Now, crassness aside, it makes a valid point. My personal gripe goes deeper than the 'they get paid commission' ickiness of it all, its the phony sincerity of the social exchange that gets my dander vibrating. Truth be told, I am an anxious, socially awkward person, tis the fashion of the early 21st century after all. False smiles and promises of hugs from bearded strangers in bright red tabbards is enough to put the fear in you. And it does, there is a sadness to it all, that we meander up and down high-streets, not saying 'tickety boo' to one another, yet we have these specters haunting the concourses to Tesco's, Maplins, HMV an the like. Think of all the amazing conversations we could have which each other instead. 

So, instead of just ranting, I've become an ANTI-CHUGGER; Well I'm performing the role of an Anti-Chugger and I want to have a laugh with you next Saturday. We can talk about why you never need to give money to someone in the street again AND to get more out of the high-street escapade than loneliness and guilt. It's an experience designed to lighten your day rather than hamper it, but all I ask is that you pass it on. 

So for your chance to encounter such a thing, a genuine chance of social interaction and an opportunity to redefine your world view come along to Bermondsey Street Festival on 24th September 2011, from 11am. I shall be tottering about.