To think during lockdown people have forgotten to use their 'inside voices'

[Bobbiebigbum]

Not the first time that has happened. But today, walking around a country park, 6 women with walking poles walk near me. One almost shouts... "there are a lot of other people here". I'm just me and ddog. They are six. She then stood practically next to me and read out aloud a poem carving I was quietly reading. She certainly wasnt 2 feet away and practically spitting in my ear as she read it. Hoping I would move away I think. I didn't. She then moved back to her friend group and said, 'oh looks like we're going to have to have conversations with others as we go around.' Wtf. I only said hello and made embarrassing smalltalk as I felt awkward she was practically spitting in my ear.

Another time a few months back, a couple came upon me and my 2 kids biking in the local forest (normal). She looked horrified and stopped in her tracks and said in a voice of disapproval , 'oh everyone is out today'. Well yes, as are you.

People regularly walk past me and comment loudly on my dog, like I'm not even there.

Has anyone experienced this lately?

No.

If she moved next to you you could have asked her to move away.

Yes I've definitely noticed that. A female relative of mine has been uttering a few comments recently which have made me wonder 'does she know she's saying that out loud?!' It's pretty weird, I hadn't thought about it being due to lockdown until you made this post.

I've been the opposite - trying to be kinder or more understanding to people I come across. It's not always easy as we live in an area very popular with visitors, not all considerate, but I might be the only interaction they have all day or it might be a much-needed trip out for them. I don't want to make anyone feel worse, especially at the moment.

Exactly @MrsMackesy I wish everyone was like you.

I thought people stopped indoor voices years ago. Loud conversations on FaceTime to show people what they are eating in a restaurant etc

People who like to 'other' other people have always existed. Perhaps now with interactions reduced they're getting less opportunities to make people feel uncomfortable in a pub or office and so on, so they have to take whatever chance they get to make someone they don't like or know feel unwelcome.

It's different if someone isn't wearing a mask when they should or social distancing - then I would understand the reaction.

@CarmelBeach good point!

Yes I’ve definitely experienced this lately, especially whilst out cycling.

I hadn’t considered it was to do with lockdown/Covid, but it’s definitely worse than it ever was so that makes sense! Very strange.

@Bobbiebigbum

Exactly *@MrsMackesy* I wish everyone was like you.

I've even suspended waving my pitchfork and scowling at people parking in 'our lane' though I still quietly wish they'd use the car park, cycle or public transport