Pre-Boomer Musings

We are being assaulted by noise.  This unwelcome intruder comes at us from scores of different directions and a multitude of new sources in a constant effort to distract and even disturb us.  Is it time to declare the days of relative peace and quiet are over, or can we do about the ever increasing amount of noise in our lives?

Pre-boomers are affected more by noise, not targeted more, because we remember the easier, simpler and quieter era.  Since our generation is out and about more than other retirees, we get to see and hear what’s going on in our country today.

Think about what you’ve been exposed to lately.  Stand in line at the supermarket, the bank, or the check-in counter at the airport and you hear one end of cell phone conversations emanating from several people who all seem to talk above normal conversation levels.  Most of the time these calls are frivolous, and those engaged in such inconsiderate practices do so to pass the time instead of being alone with their own thoughts.

Another annoyance, small but consistent, is the sound level of television commercials.  When listening to your favorite show, have you noticed how much louder the commercial spots sound compared to the program?  It’s not every spot, but this occurs often enough to make it a problem.

Even on vacation noise is a factor.  Relaxing by the pool, on board ship or at a resort, we are confronted by less-than-relaxing music blaring through loudspeakers usually located just above the chaise lounge.  The music playing is most likely selected by someone under twenty-five.  Of course, during the summer of ’56 older folks had similar complaints about all the portable radios at the local beaches playing Elvis Presley’s latest hit, “Hound Dog.”

At the risk of sounding like an old fogy, I’d like to see restrictions on the use of cell phones in public places.  It worked for smoking, so we ought to be able to limit where these devices can be used.  Are you ready to start circulating a petition and launch this movement?  We certainly can contact the TV stations or the cable company about keeping the sound levels balanced for programs and commercials.  And ask the cruise ships and resorts you visit to consider your need for peace and relaxation; after all, you’re an important source of their income.

We may not be able to put an end to all unnecessary noise, but pre-boomers have a loud enough voice to be heard.

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