Strange Envy
I was on my way to Berkeley yesterday on the BART, and as usual I missed my train having run the last several blocks. I won't rant here about the inferiority of BART to the MTA system in NYC, but suffice to say I wasn't surprised at the ensuing 15 min wait. As I stood sweating on the platform a group of young folks passed before me talking animatedly. I had headphones on so I couldn't actually hear what they were saying, but I passed the time by watching them, and as I did I saw an Asian guy walk up to them signing up a storm. I momentarily had some pity for this poor guy obviously requesting help and probably not about to get it.
To my surprise they replied in sign langage and were soon joined in conversation by another lady also signing madly. Everyone in the group took part and it seemed to be quite a lively discussion based on the smiles on everyones' faces. Out of the corner of my eye I spotted another couple a little further down the platform who seemed to be gesticulating, but it turned out they were also signing!
I felt, for a moment, like the subject of an elaborate prank, but resisted the urge to look around for the cameras. A moment later though I as overcome by a bizarre sort of envy at these folks who were carrying on a pleasant conversation without the need to worry about how loud the station was, or the train for that matter. Chalk that up on my long list of things I am envious of that I shouldn't be.