It’s the 200 pound gorilla in the room. You all know what I’m referencing. People on their cell phones in public spaces. In quiet restaurants, movie theaters, bathrooms, walking down the street, in line behind us…everywhere.

They’re talking extra loud about virtually nothing. Are they asking my opinion? Am I supposed to respond to “do you think I should call him first?”, or are you not talking to me? Sometimes I’m not sure since you’re standing right next to me and did I mention, you’re talking so loud.

It’s hella easier to know what’s going on when the rude-ometer is on ten and they have their friend on speakerphone! Now I know they’re not talking to me because I have the privilege of the whole entire conversation on extra loud. For no good reason.

I’d rather they go back to using Bluetooth and me thinking they’re crazy and talking to themselves. I knew to steer clear of the nut job in Aisle 3. As it is now, I’m not sure who they’re addressing, if I’m part of a group chat, and am I expected to respond.

Are there no sacred spaces? Is there no longer a need to be present? Is that exchange that crucial? I already know it’s not because I heard the whole darn thing. Because you talk so dang loud and you’re using the speakerphone.

Of course, no one wants to address the elephant in the room. With all the anger and hatred going around, who knows what such a person would do when confronted? Particularly when there’s a heated argument going on and you see the other person’s point. Should you weigh in? After all, they forced you to be in the middle of it.

No. We usually roll our eyes, shake our heads, and deal with it. Occasionally, I see some aggrieved patron attempt to shush the offender only to get cursed out and become the next topic of the conversation. “Can you believe this bish?” There have been reports of phone abusers being attacked or shot – but those were extreme cases. I guess.

Be honest, is this you? If it is, why must you talk so loud? If it’s not, and it’s bothersome to you – what do you do?

Asking for a friend.

Love,
Robin ❤️