The Noise We Make in Public

I am still trying to get my unpublished book The Split Second:  In Consideration of Others or Look Up from the Phone published. I let myself get beleaguered with negative feelings and then, I “get back on the horse.” So, I am back trying to get a literary agent. I have not given up whatsoever-just trying at times. I offer my thanks to all who have been so supportive.

I just returned from having breakfast at IHOP (International House of Pancakes—but who calls it that anymore?). A gentleman walked in to pick up an order he had obviously arranged by phone or online before he came in. He carried in one hand what may be called a “radio” or was once called a “walkie-talkie.” The sound that came from it was extremely loud. He turned it down a bit. Still, as I was trying to read, I found it very disturbing and unsettling. I guessed that the gentleman had to “be in touch” or “on call” with his work. I wondered if he was working for some sort of emergency services although his car was not an ambulance or “official” car of any sort. The point is the sound was a nuisance to many in the restaurant.

This happens a lot these days. Customers use their cell phones to play loud videos or music whether they are sharing the experience with others or not. Parents will often bring a “pad” to a restaurant to entertain their children and the source of the entertainment makes much noise for others. I have asked people to turn down their music or the “noise,” or at least, :”put it in your ear.” Often, the one responsible for the noise is resentful and can act very offensive. I have even thought that maybe I should buy the ear buds to attach to the device so that the one blaring the noise can at least send it to her/his ear and the rest of us do not need to hear it. Once again, it is “the consideration of others” matter which is not being utilized in these situations. It is all about “ME” and my concerns.

I have a sensitivity to sound which I freely admit. Although undiagnosed, I believe what I have is called “hyperacusis.” I deal with it, and it is bearable most of the time. My huge concern is for people with hard of hearing conditions whether they have hearing aids. If they do have such aids, these “device” sounds can be very unnerving. There is that most importantly, and it is very rude.