Voice Connection

As I walk the streets of San Miguel, I am amazed at how many people are talking on their phones.

Since legs are the main transportation vehicle in town, streets are busy, not New York City busy, but always pedestrians strolling to or from somewhere. And they all seem to have a phone taped to an ear, usually their own ear, to be precise.

Even in a cab or on city buses, conversations via mobile devices are ongoing. And not necessarily privately or quietly.

Hearing other people’s chatter doesn’t bother me since I don’t understand a word they are saying in Spanish, but it is nice to hear the rhythm of their voices. Mexicans speak fast, something like the speed of European trains. Unless you are proficient in Spanish, it is difficult to follow the thread, especially if you are just passing them.

Often you can tell if they are giving orders, questioning someone, talking with children, are angry, frustrated, or giggling. I would like to stop someone who is laughing to find out what is so funny, but again, I wouldn’t understand their answer, so I just smile as they walk by.

My frame of reference for phone use is the town of La Grange, 4,600 people, and walking is not one of the ways people get around. They are usually in the car, either holding their phone in one hand, or hiding it on the center console pretending they aren’t using it. They certainly don’t want a ticket for texting while driving.

That reminds me of the time my Dad, who loved his beer, was stopped at a red light next to a police cruiser. He made eye contact with the two officers and waved with the hand that was holding his Lone Star beer can. He swore that was the only time he received a ticket. He learned to keep the beer between his legs.

Sorry, I digress. All this is to say, I find strolling the streets of this lovely Mexican city is entertaining and challenging. I love the interaction going on between the walker and the person they are chatting with. Somehow it makes me somehow involved with them. I feel a connection as I hear their voices. They seem to be including me in their lives.

I know, it makes no sense, but I feel a part of their existence. That is comforting, and certainly safer than driving and talking on the phone. I leave that to the taxi drivers in San Miguel. They talk, text, look at maps, and have fights with their significant others as they get you to your destination.

No wonder we walk.