Girls Just Want to Have Phone

Week ending 1/12/07:

Ah, the cell phone. One of the eight wonders of the modern world. I recognize the role that this ubiquitous device plays in society around the globe. However, as we get back to work and look forward to a happy, healthy and productive 2007, can the simple task of riding a train for a modest period of time without a phone (or bluetooth headset) attached to one's face be too much to ask? And I ask, "what is so freaking important that people can't get by without staying connected to Mom, Mindy, Moesha, Margarita, Muffy, Michelle, Miguel and Maxwell?" It beats me, and sorry ladies, but XX chromosomes seem to have this "need to speed dial" embedded in their DNA. It's particularly evident when Amtraking. Young girls, College girls, Ivy-educated career girls, housewife girls, and matronly grandmother girls all share the gene. Not all women, I grant you are guilty, and there are some XX-men that exhibit the behavior, but the vast majority of the ever-chatty train phonies are of the female persuasion. I could maybe understand if the content of these "can't wait" conversations was an engagement (the marrying kind), a death, a big promotion, a big firing, or a baby, but come on!!! Must we all be exposed to "yeah, I'm on the train, it's pretty hot/cold today, I saw Mimi the other day, what are you doing tonight, etc., etc., etc. " This exchange doesn't happen once, but is repeated to multiple entries in their address book and it's only 7:00 A.M. Give me a freakin' break! A typical morning on the 170 to NY finds me always amazed at why many other riders cannot just take advantage of the time to themselves: read a book, read a newspaper, write a letter, pay some bills, take a nap, or prepare a report are just a few ways to enjoy the ride. The quiet car provides some sanctuary, but if you do need to keep your phone on in the event of a business or family emergency, then it would be nice to not have to sit through an exhibition of Ms. Chatty Cathy burning through her monthly minutes. I believe that to be left alone with your thoughts is a scary place for some people to visit. As a result, a constant distraction is necessary and meaningless banter is a great way for them to pass the time!