The “home” I’ve worked from
has been on a small hill that overlooks a pond. I’ve seen and heard it all from
up there – photo shoots, film crews, a wedding, Shakespearean plays. Almost 9 years
ago, before I relocated to New York, a thick-accented man approached me not too
far from this hill, to ask for my number and whether I was a virgin. (I
initially thought he was saying “Belgian,” which created a good deal of confusion
for nearly a full minute.)
Yesterday’s most riveting concentration-breaking
scene came in the form of a distressingly raucous argument, in a language that’s
foreign to me, between a very old woman in a motorized wheelchair and her male
companion. He (who might be her son but, in this time and place, could just as
easily be her fiancé) was doing the bulk of the yelling, teetering on the brink
of getting physical. There was the real fear of her getting chucked into the pond,
wheelchair and all. When she couldn’t take it any longer, she shouted something
back at him and zoomed away in the chair. Whatever she said effectively put him
in his place. He looked sad and scared to see her go.
The old and infirm in New
York are as tough as they come. They continue to do great work in their
high-pressure offices well into their seventies, when they could have retired a
decade earlier; and cruise through Midtown rush-hour traffic in their wheelchairs;
and slowly, but purposefully, walk their dogs, with only the company of a cane
or a walker, after the sun has gone down. Discount them at your own detriment.
From my hill, I had an
unobstructed view of the eastern half of the pond. I could see things the son/fiancé
couldn’t see from his bench down below. I bet she wanted him to think she sailed
all the way home, after deciding to cut him off for good. But all she’d done
was park her power-chair on the other side of the pond, where she sat still,
before turning around to pick him up so they could head out together. As they exited
the park, she took the lead, stopping every now and then (head held high, never
looking back) to wait for her fella to catch up.
I agree, the best place to observe people is in their natural habitat - lucky for you that was from your window. In those instances, their actions and demeanor don't lie - and it makes for compelling viewing. I reckon every educational institute should instruct every student to "take a look outside" every now and then. It's amazing the things we learn:)
ReplyDeleteYou've awakened one of my great fears: growing extremely old and helpless and living in a wheelchair, and--while living in New York. As much as I love the city, it's not a good place for the elderly, let alone in a wheelchair. You've said that the old and infirm in New York are as tough as they come. I'm not so sure I see myself as strong in those circumstances. I hope I simply keel over with a heart attack before I have to find out whether I'm tough enough to take it.
ReplyDeleteI find it fascinating also to observe people and the dynamics among themselves. I learn a lot about myself while doing that also. Getting old has not been bad at all for me. I am grateful for each and everyday, experience and people that cross my path while I am facing this new stage in my wonderful life.
ReplyDeleteI love that she didn't leave all together. Says so much about their unknown relationship.
ReplyDeleteStopping by from SITS.
People watching is so intriguing. Loved this.
ReplyDeleteYour house on the hill sounds like a fine place to work--and with a vievw.
Prime people watching definitely. I always love a place to perch where you can observe at leisure. You've got a great workstation indeed.
ReplyDelete