2017 - My worst fall experience at Guilin North Train Station

As we made our journey back from Guilin to Guangzhou, a routine stop at the train terminal turned into an unexpected ordeal. Amidst the hustle and bustle of fellow travelers, my focus was solely on securing our tickets. Maneuvering through the crowd with my luggage in tow, I searched for the designated ticket counter.

However, fate had a different plan in store. Unaware of a slick patch of oil on the floor, I found myself slipping in an instant. Both feet went airborne, and before I could react, I collided with the unforgiving ground. The impact was harsh, leaving me sprawled on the floor, stunned and disoriented.

For what felt like an eternity, I lay there, oblivious to the concerned onlookers. Surprisingly, amidst the chaos, I remained strangely calm, devoid of any immediate sense of urgency.

It was the piercing scream of a Chinese woman that jolted me back to reality. With a renewed focus, I realized my top priority: securing our tickets to Guangzhou. Ignoring the throbbing pain, I forced myself into action.

Assessing the damage, I became aware of the shards of my cracked molar in my mouth, and the warm trickle of blood down my face. With makeshift first aid, I managed to stem the flow of blood and slowly rose to my feet, acknowledging the horrified gaze of the bystanders.

Grateful for the assistance, I expressed my gratitude to the concerned woman. Despite the discomfort and visible injuries, I counted my blessings as we boarded the train. Fortunately, there were no signs of serious injury, except for the swollen cheek and torn skin, a testament to the unexpected turn of events at the train terminal.