He Said

I don’t remember a playground because my friend, Joan, and I always played on the street.

The stoop was part of our culture, and 58th Street had many nooks and crannies that provided not only interesting adventures, but imaginative fun.

During those years, the city streets were not yet viewed as a source of danger, and we never heard of anyone being kidnapped or threatened during our childhood in Hell’s Kitchen.

But indeed, there were squabbles and possibly more than that.

“He said,” and “She said,” rang out daily.

Then the wiser voices called out from the windows that overlooked the concrete always saying the same thing, “Stop it.”

Our Mothers didn’t want to hear.

Today I hardly feel maternal listening to the constant whining and complaining recorded during this current “Me Too” era. However, I have never forgotten the edict I heard so often as a child.

“Stop it! I don't care what he or she said. I don't want to hear anymore about it.” Our parents all gave the identical and unanimous response to our childish whines.

Today another reclaimed memory from a minor celebrity is being headlined on the internet.

Is it an honest recollection?

Does it matter?

Or is it tit for tat?

And when will it stop?

Generations ago, people raised their voices to get attention.

Now that’s not necessary. Simply send a Twitter or go on Facebook and vent your spleen on another without actual interaction

Undoubtedly, this is a far simpler mehod of retribution for the antagonist. Still I am constantly amazed at their perception that others are interested.

While some things do change in time, others just take on different garments or disguises.

Also, according to today's headlines, another expose by a rising young literary voice will appear shortly on the horizon of accusations. His lurid report is based on “She said,” with a few denials by those who quote “He Said.”

Again my memory returns to Mom’s voice saying not quietly, “I don’t want to hear about it.”

The current daily verbal wrangling that seems to be endless is really no different than the chants of my childhood. I must confess to finding it equally as annoying as the neighborhood elders did decades ago.

Sadly, too many loud voices are wasting valuable time as they point accusatory fingers at each other while the world keeps tumultuously turning, However, as long as there is an attentive audience listening to their harangue, it will continue.