So, almost 4 months into my new life now, I think I can safely make a few sweeping generalizations and pigeon-hole this entire population of double-digit millions. I was joking when I said that, but kidding aside, I actually, genuinely believe there IS one remarkably common trait they share out here, and it's in stark contrast to my New York City experience. Namely, WHEN I have interaction with people out here, 9 times out of 10, if not more, it's been positive. Ahhh, but here's the rub: Unless there's a REASON to talk to you, it's VERY rare that strangers will engage you.
Historically speaking, I have what people have considered to be a "kind" face. Big cheeks, freckles, non-threatening, and I smile a lot. (Either that, or I look like a sucker. Too close to call really). For whatever reason, people of all walks have always felt compelled to talk to me. Deli guys, cabbies, homeless, doormen, in elevators, sitting in the park, you name it. Fine by me really. I like to talk. I like to listen too. Out here though, it just doesn't happen. Again, when I do interact with folks, it's fine. Very pleasant. But they just don't engage you out here.
I've only seen one person really kick it New York style. There's a diner I go to from time to time for lunch. There's a woman I see there more often than not. She's beyond being a "regular." You can tell she straps in for the long haul when she's there, like it's the days' event. She brings her crosswords, and even though I get my order to go, she only takes about two bites the entire time I'm there. Meanwhile, she'll engage ANYONE within earshot, about anything. The ol' gal is just lonely really, which isn't the biggest crime in the world. Anyway, an old episode of "Lucy" was on the other day. Lil' Ricky was playing the babaloo on the drums, and she asked whomever, "Is he playing those things?" Undeterred at the initial silent response, she persisted. "Is that him playing? Do you know if that was over-dubbed? He sure looks like he's really playing!" Finally, knowing that my to go order was safely ready to go, I jumped on the grenade and said, "Yes, he's really playing," then bolted like a gunshot, lest she consider the bait taken and she come back with a follow-up conversation starter about the genius of Fred Mertz or something. In New York, she represents "business as usual." But out here, she looks THAT much more loco, because NO ONE engages strangers. I'm telling you.
Similarly, I love my neighborhood, but it's the same thing. In my building, there are three other units. None of my neighbors explicitly introduced themselves upon our moving in. (Hannah, the 87 year old, gets a pass though). When I DID meet them, nothing but pleasant. But one of them, I only met for the first time 2 weeks ago! (The exception to all of this, of course, is when we are walking Orville down the street).
Maybe I'm using revisionist history here? Maybe I'm waxing nostalgic for something that actually didn't exist? It's not like my New York neighbors and I were always "kickin' it." Still, I remember time after time, coming home and saying, "Bubba, you should've heard this conversation I just had." It's like, people care too MUCH about your business in New York, and could care LESS about your business out here. I don't know which I prefer honestly. I think for me, I like to be in the PRESENCE of busybodies and loose cannons to observe, with an OPTION to engage, if that makes any sense.
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