Lines Between Worlds (part 1)

I woke up in another world this morning. I opened the curtains to find a luxurious villa with fountains and pools and vegetation. Apparently there is at least one (probably many) celebrities living here. I tiptoed out of my room to avoid waking the “helper”. I’m not sure if that’s common practice here, but being woken up by others is always unpleasant to me so I avoid waking up others at all costs, even if they are on the job.

I slowly recollected the journey that led me here. I was nearly delirious when I arrived the night before. I remember being taken aback at the overwhelming and seemingly sincere courtesy at the entrance to the villa. I couldn’t figure out why no one was staring at me either.

Some things you get so used to that you adjust your reactions, and then when you are placed into another environment you don’t have any automatic responses to fall back on. It’s interesting. I forgot that “thank you” and “please” and “your welcome” were a thing. I kind of like how people are actually willing to acknowledge a strangers without getting in their business. I also realize I’m rough around the edges for the people here. I don’t wait for the signal to tell me I can cross the street.

I’m trying to feel good about being myself, but I need to carefully weigh how my behavior is perceived by others. The more “civilized” a place is, the more you run the risk of upsetting people for being yourself. Things are kept in their proper places. Attention must be paid to every detail. Forget a courtesy and it could ruin someone’s mood. Wander around a lobby aimlessly and someone may call the cops. Mumble your words a bit and people think you are on drugs.

I know I shouldn’t let it bother me, but I’ve also seen society strangle those who were different. I’ve seen people put in jail for standing up for what they believe in, in places know to be free. “No loitering” the sign in front of the shopping mall says. What?

the city