I was at a University book store buying some books. I was pretty much dressed like a bum, just to fit in with the downtown street locals. The clerk ask if I was associated with the University. Students, faculty and staff get a discount with their id. Of course I had none. I straightened up and in a firm voice said, “I am the undocumented temporary adjunct professor of homeless studies.” She actually gave me the discount!
Was a time when a normally busy, focused individual was forced to sit waiting for some time in a public space, one occasionally found fascination in observing the multiple activities that were never before noticed. Kind of opened one’s eyes to the variety and textures of one’s environment. Of course, that a forgotten skill nowadays. Today’s eyes are turned to tiny electronic entertainments and self-absorption is the norm.
Example. A car repair lobby included an small room with a small table and chairs and toys for children. A kid was picking up toys and talking to his father. Dad was so immersed in his phone, he didn’t acknowledge the kid or his questions. Family time wasted.
Someone said maybe he had spent a lot of time at home with the kid during the covid crisis. Could be, but this was a chance to use a different environment to entertain and learn about the kid and himself apart from the distractions of home.
Aren’t we all students and observers of life each day? Only sociologists get paid for doing it, while the rest of us have to have real jobs in order to survive….
Straker UFO over 3 years ago
In other words, bums.
GreasyOldTam over 3 years ago
Observer of the passing scene? Looks more he was run over by it.
Wilde Bill over 3 years ago
Let the parade pass. You’re not missing much.
Sanspareil over 3 years ago
And it is observed that the questioner has a boring suit ,an old school hat, a ridiculous bow tie and an ancient leather briefcase!!
Zykoic over 3 years ago
I was at a University book store buying some books. I was pretty much dressed like a bum, just to fit in with the downtown street locals. The clerk ask if I was associated with the University. Students, faculty and staff get a discount with their id. Of course I had none. I straightened up and in a firm voice said, “I am the undocumented temporary adjunct professor of homeless studies.” She actually gave me the discount!
sandpiper over 3 years ago
Was a time when a normally busy, focused individual was forced to sit waiting for some time in a public space, one occasionally found fascination in observing the multiple activities that were never before noticed. Kind of opened one’s eyes to the variety and textures of one’s environment. Of course, that a forgotten skill nowadays. Today’s eyes are turned to tiny electronic entertainments and self-absorption is the norm.
Example. A car repair lobby included an small room with a small table and chairs and toys for children. A kid was picking up toys and talking to his father. Dad was so immersed in his phone, he didn’t acknowledge the kid or his questions. Family time wasted.
Someone said maybe he had spent a lot of time at home with the kid during the covid crisis. Could be, but this was a chance to use a different environment to entertain and learn about the kid and himself apart from the distractions of home.
[Traveler] Premium Member over 3 years ago
Watching the human comedy
Iseau over 3 years ago
Why work when the government gives you more free money than you can earn?
uniquename over 3 years ago
Competing in the sport of people watching.
Michael G. over 3 years ago
Did you try to BS this week?
Norris66 over 3 years ago
Tree Inspectors right now we’re Resting on our Laurels
brick10 over 3 years ago
I need to have this printed on my new business cards!
TSRaman over 3 years ago
I am a professional loafer and my friend is a pro idler.
raybarb44 over 3 years ago
Aren’t we all students and observers of life each day? Only sociologists get paid for doing it, while the rest of us have to have real jobs in order to survive….
paranormal over 3 years ago
And how much do those jobs pay?
Gent over 3 years ago
Haven’t you reads our research papers yet? It’s in all the major journals.
Ray Helvy Premium Member over 3 years ago
Kind of like HeeHaw’s Pickin’ and Grinnin’ pair – minus the pickin’.
Ukko wilko over 3 years ago
And, why is it any of your business?