As I walk around America, whether
among the forest towns of the South, the seaside cities of New England, or the
busy streets of New York, I see a constant: indifference. I can't quite speak
for other societies because I have not traveled that extensively, but I would
hope to high heavens that they are at least somewhat better than what I am
about to describe.
Whether I am heading to school,
getting coffee and donuts at a cafe, or just out walking in the park, I see the
same look and feel the same excruciatingly unnerving vibe: "I don't want
anything to do with you. Unless you represent a convenience or necessity for my
life, get away from me."
In class, people would rather
call or text other people OUTSIDE of the room if there is a problem or some
other phenomenon rather than the person right next to them.
In cafes, bars, and theaters,
almost every person leaves at least a one seat (or the equivalent) between
themselves and other human beings (in many cases, guys will do that with their
own friends).
In all kinds of social areas,
everyone is in a group. A guy or girl could easily be the most good-looking,
well-mannered, and approachable person at the scene, and NOBODY, especially so
for people of the opposite gender, will approach them (unless they already know
the person of course, but that doesn't count). No sense of attraction, comfort,
interest, or any new human connection whatsoever.
Thinking about it, I guess it's
really no wonder my friends stare at me like I'm an alien when I suggest trying
to meet people in environments other than bars and parties.
I'm all for going out and having
fun on occasion and when times are good, but I am horrified by the extent that
the overwhelming majority people, regardless of how well I know them, DEPEND on
the bar/party scene just to simply get out and MEET PEOPLE. There are few other
things that bring me so much pain, sadness, and despair than seeing so many
good people, very lonely inside, half-heartedly and superficially interact in
alcohol-filled environments (in fact a lot of them actually seem to NEED
alcohol to socialize).
I am at a complete loss for words
for this incredibly nightmarish trend. All I can say is that its impact for the
future will most definitely NOT be positive.
