Next thing you know, a loud conversation started up between two older gentlemen. One was ranting about the election and the second one was ranting louder about the election. Of course it became apparent which party they each belonged to and that their opinions were vastly different.
The older of the two started getting quite riled up which made the other fellow even louder. They were each spouting extreme opinions.
There were about 12 people in the room. Reactions varied to this debate; chuckling, outright laughter, embarrassed silence, irritation. The lady sitting next to me was also reading, or trying to. She stated "People are trying to read, please be quiet." The two men kept right on going, louder and angrier. She hissed at them again to settle down.
I asked the old guys, "Can't you two just agree to disagree?"
Apparently not.
Finally the loudest man was called by the nurse. He rumbled and ranted from his seat, then stood by the nurse who was holding the door open for him and barked a a little bit more. Eventually he went in (to get his blood pressure taken by the way!). The other man huffed and puffed for a bit until another lady handed him some magazines to look at. A quiet peace descended upon the rest of us.
I thought at one point the old geezers were going to come to blows.
Most likely, this same scene is playing out across the country in diners, barber shops & hair salons, club meetings, work places. On the positive side, I am glad to see people showing interest in the issues that face this country; for too long there has been a lax and apathetic feeling among a vast group of people. It would be more productive, though if discussions could be less volatile, better informed and less accusing.
Probably never going to happen though. But freedom of speech is alive and well in America, and dissenters were the impetus behind the founding of our country.
So talk on, people. But a little more quietly...people are trying to read.
16 comments:
I bet his blood pressure readings were off the charts, LOL!
I am just wondering what his blood pressure was? LOL!!!
Great story. I can just picture the old geezers. I once worked with the elderly so I know how stubborn they can be. On the negative side, however, I've noticed several bloggers who I've followed for a few years now so angry that they refuse to blog anymore. Really bewilders me. Is sitting and stewing about it really going to make it better?
why can't people discuss differences without arguing? if people would slow down and listen to each other they might actually learn something rather than thinking they need to jam their views down the throats of others. i certainly agree it is better this than apathy! change is happening.
Talk is good! Arguing and fighting, no! But, I do wonder what his blood pressure reading was? LOL!
Men...always having those peeing contests...Divine Mother help us! LOL...
I think you are courageous for having sat through it all, Robin!
I'm afraid these types of discussions are going to get greater and greater though.
Have a Superb, Peaceful Weekend!
xoxoxo
I love listening to people like that :-) They just don't seem to be able to discuss something quietly :-)
I guess his blood pressure was a bit high :-)
Have a great day!
Christer.
What an adventure you had. My dad was always looking for a fight about politics, win or lose. I think that is why I am a-political. Doesn't mean I don't have opinion about my country and how we should be responsible for it, just means, fighting is futile. Work is what it takes. If folks would put half as much energy into finding ways to make things happen instead of bitching about how it isn't then we'd be a stronger country and a more cohesive citizery.
I'm with Mary though....don't throw the towel in, don't gloat and rub it in, don't just sit and spin......John Kennedy gave us such a wonderful mandate....don't ask what your country will do for you....ask what you can do for your country.
Right after an election should be a time of new thought, new energy whether it is a re-elected official or a brand new one. Be supportive, tis the adult behavior we should model for the younger generation. OmaLinda
I wonder if I would have been the loudest if I were involved..lol
This happens at the gym on a regular basis. There's one guy who is happy unless he finds someone who will argue with him. He doesn't want a civil discussion. No fun in that.
LOL! Well, Robin, all I can say is that I agree with you about people feeling very passionate about this election. Even I was and had really never been before. From reading some of the other Wiccan blogs in the BLog-o-sphere, I can tell you that many Wiccans would not like, agree or appreciate my political views, although just like them, I too have my own reasons. None have anything to do with social issues at this time as I do not feel that is our immediate problem. I see people and friends I work with lose their jobs left and right because of our horrible ecomony and yes many employers are outsourcing to India and China (so did our President BTW) and it is utterly frightening! I see people who "live" in my area literally living on the streets and in their cars! I doubt insurance will help the ones now who have lost their homes. :( I fear the same fate for my family and others as well. I have been chastisized by my own faith because I feel this way. Being called very colorful and insulting names from supposedly "tolerant" folks! BTW, I am not a fan of either party and never have been. I am very sad about this indeed. Have a great weekend, my friend! :)
A simi;ar scene happened in the lobby of the bank I work in. Goodness, a well informed debate and discussion is what people need - not mindless yelling and finger pointing! Geeze,
OMG, we had a nasty group text that started out completely innocent, my hubby's step-sister no longer speaks to hr friend because of Facebook political postings, and people have been cursing each other... I find it all highly amusing.
I wish politics and political opinions would stop descending to the childish name calling. Screaming "You're a wiener head!" at someone who doesn't believe exactly what you believe isn't going to improve the country or someone's blood pressure. What has happened to open debate among adults who truly want to make the world a better place? (Please don't read that as "making everyone believe as I do.") Some talks must end in 'agreeing to disagree.' But others should lead to meaningful disscussion and (eventually) change. Change for the better, not just swapping one tired old party for another tired old party... Congress should not be allowed to make laws that don't affect them. Men should not be allowed to make laws regarding lady parts (especially when they insist this is what their God wants them to do so). And anytime politicans want this country to go to war - they should have to suit up and lead the battle.
Irritating in a slightly amusing way innit!
When asked what my political leanings are I now answer that I'm a Radical Moderate and if they try to upset my fence-sitting I'll be sure to land in their laps. =D
Well, nothing can get people riled up like politics, especially after a contentious election. I have seen so many rants online, listened to them on the radio, read the papers.... people, we are all living together. It's done. Let's work with what we have and let's work together. We are all in this together and let's find some common ground.
Wow, you did have an experience though, didn't you? LOL. Ann
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