“Ding!” Rang the elevator as I stepped out into the empty lobby. The rain slammed against the windows, begging to get in. Out on the street was an endless crowd, to be expected for the city.

As I’m exiting the door, fully ready to book it towards a cab so as not to get too wet, I trip over an umbrella stand. I take out one, raise it over my head, and merge my way into the crowd. People bump into ...