Overhearing is good
Many people think that
overhearing others’ conversation is bad or bad manners. There are two types of
overhearing: one is intentional and purposeful and the other is accidental. I
feel that both types of overhearing are beneficial.
I was walking in the bazaar. A
flower vendor was sitting at the entrance to a temple nearby. I heard someone telling another: “Hey, we haven’t
yet bought coconut”. That reminded to buy betel leaves, unticked on my shopping
list. On the other day, I heard someone asking another: “Have you read Somu’s
letter carefully?” I was reminded of posting a letter I had written, stamped
and was ready to be posted. Almost every now and then, I overhear conversations
among my neighbors, reminding me to collect water; water is supplied once in
three or four days and it precious!
All the above are accidental
overhearing: I happen to be around when somebody is talking to somebody else.
Overhearing telephonic conversations is interesting, intriguing and entertaining.
You keep guessing who is at the other end. If someone known to you is mentioned
you get curious. What could have been the provocation? Knowing about others’
misfortunes is comforting. Listening to rants is amusing as you are not
involved. Mobile phones with
walking-talking men are great entertainers: they cannot blame you for
overhearing.
Once I was invited for lunch
by a friend. I reached his house somewhat early. Hesitating to enter I was
debating if I should while away time elsewhere or brave myself to ring the bell
and go in. Just then I heard my friend’s wife say:” Your friend is likely to
come any time. He has the habit of walking right into the kitchen. Don’t dare and
let him do that. Kitchen is utterly messy. Catch him and keep him engaged in
the veranda or hall. If you must get out, let chintu keep company with ‘uncle’
etc etc
I was shocked at the
revelation and retreated. I went back again dot on appointed time. That incident helped me know a bit about
myself.
Overall, overhearing is good.
It depends upon how you take it and use it. People who are hard of hearing have
no dilemma at all. They are blessed by nature.
What is your take on this
topic, based on your experience?
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