The wheels on the bus go round and round…
As we sit on the couch, remarking about the quirks and fuzzles of other family members, my daughter points out an article in “Real Simple” magazine in which the author describes techniques to help one deal with stress. One approach seems tailor-made for me (for writers in general) and that is to assume the role of “amused spectator” when viewing humanity. Thinking about it, I realized I have utilized this technique most of my life. I can testify as to its effectiveness. The major drawback would be the response of many of the contestants taking part in the show. The secretary at the private school where I once taught for 4 months before they fired me for teaching the Holocaust as non-fiction – she told me to wipe that smirk off my face.
Public transportation affords one great spectating (as in “I spectate, you spectate, he/she/it spectates” – a new VMac verbical) possibilities. Pittsburgh buses? The ultimate experience.
A man wearing snake leggings, carrying a 5 ft. pole, sporting a 3-day beard. His outfit included a pith helmet. There must be a real reptile problem in East Liberty…
A totally non-threatening insane person who spoke to his invisible friends, apparently telling them jokes, laughing so hard he cried.
An extremely large woman who loudly told her friend, “He was having a royal day. Crown Royal – the big bottle – not some damn pint.”
**had real nice photos with this post… used to, anyways