This morning I will partake in what I do most days: ride the train. For some people, riding the train is merely a form of transportation, a necessary means to arrive at a destination.
For yours truly, it is a fantastic cavalcade of curiosity! I find so many interesting and sometimes entertaining situations while I observe my train car surroundings. However, sometimes the scenery is not so pleasant.
Case in point: cell phones and music contraptions. I have been told that I possess exceptionally good hearing. Why, some might say a blessing, something to appreciate, a sense that one might wish to have in full regalia!
Be that as it may, my super-sonic ‘sounding devices’ (a.k.a. my ears) have but one little curse: I utterly loathe hearing the wailing words and sounds permeating out of my fellow train passengers’ ears. And to this I say, if the ‘noise’ vibration is practically bouncing me out of my seat, then how, oh how on earth can the listener (well, the original listener, as it were, since we ALL are expecting to partake in the enjoyment) blissfully continue to pound their eardrums with such force?
There are many recorded announcements that are played on the trains here in CHItown; one of them is to be courteous and keep cell phone and music playing quiet, “……so as not to disturb other customers.” Well Mr. Recording Person, ‘said’ individuals haven’t heard a darn word you just said (ah, the irony is yet again not lost, is it?)
To my fellow train travelers I say this: music is the expression of the soul. I love music; all kinds, in fact. But I would kindly ask that you express your soul a wee bit more quietly. Ah, that’s better. What’s that? You missed your train stop? I wouldn’t hear of such a thing!!
The Chicago Files 
Yes, noise pollution is dreadful when travelling.
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I quite agree! I didn’t want my post to sound as if I was complaining; however, it really does seem rather inconsiderate on the part of those that seem to ‘need’ to share their sounds of music! Thank you for your comments!! Hugs, Cher xo
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It was many, many years ago that I rode the subway in New York (Manhattan). It was always a quiet ride except for the sound of the train wheels on the tracks, and the occasional train whistle magnified in the “tubes.” But, as I always was (and still am) a people watcher, I occupied myself by watching the other passengers and surreptitiously listening to their conversations. The “boombox” craze was just beginning to take hold, and, I observed some passengers carrying theirs on their shoulders but, thankfully, they were not turned on. You stirred up some “way back then” memories, Cher. Thanks for giving us a more updated view of what it’s like to ride the train today.
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Wow, that must have been quite the experience! I too am a people watcher! I can only imagine what it would have been like if a bunch of boombox sounds were all happening at once! Awh, bless you! It’s interesting each time I ride the train!! Hugs, Cher xo
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In many ways, it’s still the same; but in others, I can see there are changes. It’s really another world fitting inside another! People from all walks of life rubbing shoulders. You have started quite the feedback on riding trains!
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Awh, thanks! It really is like another world fitting inside another, isn’t it? I know exactly what you mean. It’s like a micro world! Big hugs and thanks for your always awesome comments! Cher xo
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Thus, my reason why I purchased noise cancelling earphones 😛
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Andy, you are soooo ‘in the know’; do tell!! I haven’t heard about them! Cher xo
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When we were in the UK, you could travel in compartments set aside for “Quiet”. No music allowed, no mobile devices. Aaaah, so peaceful! I do so agree with you that’s a pain listening to other people’s noise, it’s as if so many people can’t live with….quiet!
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I wish they had the “Quiet” cars here! Hhhhmmmmm, this leads me to ponder how they would be adhered to if implemented over here! I think people need to listen to the ‘sound of silence’; it can be very enjoyable!! *LOL* Thanks for your comments; I’m glad you ‘hear’ what I am saying! Hugs, Cher xo
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Hello. Yeah, I hate noise pollution. Especially at the Public Library! (Talking too loud, talking too loud on a cell phone when your not suppose to.) Let’s face it, people have no regard for common courtesy.
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Hello there and welcome to The Chicago Files! Oh yes, the library. I had that exact situation happen just last week. In fact, the gentleman who felt he was at home talked on his cell phone for about 15 minutes, providing the entire library with his medical, prescription, and address information without a care in the world! I think courtesy is soooooooooooo important, isn’t it? It’s tough to be in an environment where others don’t care about something we think is vital. Thank you so much for your comments and come back anytime! Hugs, Cher xo
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What a fun and informative post Cher! Your writing, as always, is stellar. I appreciate all the laughter and learning you brighten our world with. Big hugs, Gina xo
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Awh, bless you my dear friend! You always make me feel that what I am doing here at The Chicago Files is a good thing! Thank you a million times!!! Hugs, Cher xo
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I’ve actually rarely felt annoyed by other people’s noise. I might wonder whether they’re doing right by their hearing, but, for the most part there’s not anything going on that really demands my attention so I don’t mind overhearing someone else’s bass. Of course, I start tonelessly humming along to music I hear, and people don’t complain about me doing that, so I suppose I’m the beneficiary of other people not protesting my behavior.
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Ah yes! I do recall your post, Joseph! 🙂 And your award from the American Radio Relay League! Well done! I must include myself in the group of people who don’t complain about your humming; quite frankly, I would find it enjoyable! Clearly it adds to an experience, as opposed to my self-proclaimed pet-peeve of musical noise via a fine pair of earphones! I also enjoy listening to someone whistling; it seems to be something not heard much anymore. Thank you for your wonderful words, Joseph, and again, big congrats on your award!!! Hugs, Cher xo
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A reason I loved the quiet cars in England…peace 🙂
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I quite agree! Cher xo
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Your post with your usual joyful spirit!
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You are so sweet and I appreciate your kindness! Thank you, my dear! Hugs, Cher xo
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Hugs to you !
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