Today I tagged along with Mom's friend, Bob, to the local rec center for a swim. I thoroughly enjoyed being in the water and getting some exercise, though the swim was unremarkable, as was the pool. What was most interesting was conversing with the other swimmers.
One man, Larry, is training for a mini-triathalon. He owns a gymnasitcs studio in the area. We talked technique and breathing for ten minutes between rounds of swimming.
Americans are chatty. A shop clerk in Pittsburgh gave me the rundown on her upcoming birthday, her three children, ex-husband and new dreamy boyfriend.
And alarmingly, I can add to these conversations with tidbits of my own. That store clerk now knows that my birthday is also coming up, that my dear husband brings me a hot water bottle on cold nights and that I would like diamonds for my 40th birthday.
Wonder who I'll meet next time and in what circumstances? What will we talk about and why will we bother?
I have been known to talk with random strangers whereever I go.. often there is alcohol involved but then I do love a chat at anytime.. (but then you do know that about me don't you???) :)
I was in Santa Fe over spring break, when it received the heaviest snowfall in 9 years. Often, I was the only passenger on the bus, and found the bus drivers to be very chatty. I was more surprised to find myself responding in kind. I'm not very chatty on my home turf.
We bother because we are all in this together and we need each other! Nationality, race, creed etc notwithstanding. Its great to be alive and chatty!