Memoirs Of J

I work with a lot of older people.  Supposedly over 50% of our department (of about 400 people) are people within 5 years of retirement.  So we have a lot of interesting conversations.  I have a lot of religious and political differences with these boomers, but the conversations that amuse me the most are the ones that demonstrate how – I don’t know – intolerant, for lack of a better word, they are about certain things.

For instance, I was in the elevator with a colleague when it stopped at another floor and another older (40’s I’d say) lady entered.  She had tattoos all over her calves and a couple on her shoulder.  Admittedly, showcasing your tattoos in a professional office is a bit tacky and is likely against our dress policy.  But the conversation that ensued was interesting.

Older people feel somehow compelled to comment on the characteristics of others that they don’t agree with.  “Did you see those tattoos!?  I can’t believe she had all those ugly tattoos showing- why would anyone do that?”  Fine, and I’ll grant that in the context of being in a professional work setting.  But the same comments by the same people are made outside of work settings too, which is always funny to me.

“Oh my god – look over there!  Those people are gay!!!  They’re holding hands- look, look!”

“[exasperated gasp] I can’t believe that lady is wearing that!”

“Ugh!  Did you see that guy’s long hair!?”

“I can’t believe  that woman is wearing those shoes to work.”

These are some examples of comments I’ve had the displeasure of hearing.   I mean, come on.  Why can’t people just mind their own damn business?  Why do people – particularly boomers – feel the need to judge or critique every person that walks past?

Enough with the goddamn critiques, already.  Yes, there are gay people.  Get the fuck over it.  People wear what they wear.  There’s nothing you can do about it, and it really has no bearing on your life whatsoever so get over yourself and mind your own business.

Ironically, these are the same people who don’t hesitate to bust out the old ‘if you don’t have anything nice to say…!’ meme.  It’s just great.  I love it.