Peak of politeness: SA mountaineer answered a telemarketer call mid-climb
We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of something important, a work meeting, a tricky DIY project, or driving when your phone rings with a number you don’t recognise.
It’s a telemarketer, and their timing is, as always, impeccable.
For most of us, the instinct is to ignore the call or mumble a quick excuse before hanging up.
But a recent video shared by South African mountaineer and filmmaker Josh Crickmay has proved that even when you’re halfway up a cliff face, South African politeness knows no bounds.
It’s a story that’s equal parts hilarious and relatable, showing that no matter where you are, a telemarketer will always find you.
The video, which has been going viral on social media, shows Crickmay’s friend and fellow adventurer, Chris Johnston, in a truly bizarre situation.
Johnston, a skilled climber, is seen perched on the side of a mountain, seemingly in the middle of a challenging ascent, when his phone rings. In a display of a good-natured spirit, he doesn’t just silence the phone; he answers it.
What follows is pure comedic gold. Johnston, with his feet dangling precariously, listens patiently as a woman on the other end delivers her car insurance pitch.
His polite and calm demeanour is a stark contrast to the dramatic backdrop of rock, rope, and sheer drops.
He listens with a kind of grace normally reserved for parent-teachers meetings, navigating the choppy signal and the unexpected conversation with ease.
After hearing her out, and without a hint of frustration, he declines her offer with a polite and friendly tone.
The incident is a perfect example of what many of us know to be true about telemarketers: they have an almost supernatural ability to find us at the worst possible moment.
From a quiet moment in the bathroom to the busiest hour of the day, no place is safe.
Crickmay’s video has resonated with thousands of people online, with a flood of likes and comments.
“Respectfully decline the opportunity while hanging off a cliff this just made my day!”
“Next time ask for a zoom meeting”
“So I am famous in my family for missing their calls – my brother just sent me this saying – If THIS Dude can answer his bloody phone mountain climbing WTF Is wrong with u…?”
“I wanna know his server because the range is something else.“
For Chris Johnston, it was a chance to prove that you can be both a fearless adventurer and impeccably polite, all at the same time.
IOL Lifestyle