Trash Day Blues
Dear Mister Rex,
Today was garbage day. I was working from home when the truck went up my street.
It was so loud! Like an airplane. Roaring. Thundering through stop after stop.
The noise made me cry. Literally, it hurt. A garbage truck made me cry.
What is wrong with me?
Later, I made coffee. The percolating sound was like nails on a chalkboard. I sure wish I was normal.
This kind of stuff happens sometimes.
What do you make of it?
Signed,
Feeling Like I’m Perpetually Pummeled Every Day
Dear FLIPPED,
I wonder if you suffer from Hyperacusis.
These everyday sounds, they often seem more intense than they should? Even to the point of pain. This could be it.
And different from Misophonia, which is sensitivity to mouth sounds, like chewing or breathing.
But of course other options do exist:
Potentially untreated or undiagnosed mental health issues.
Possibly you have substance abuse problems.
Maybe recent head trauma.
There could be auditory difficulties.
Or worst of all, the ultimate imperfection in our world: “too sensitive.”
Said by those less attuned to subtle frequencies.
“Get over it. You’re too sensitive.”
Those cursed souls who function and stumble like blocks of wood.
I think that you FEEL THINGS.
And you wonder, as an artist, if I do too.
Well yes — I FEEL THINGS, right down to the bone.
My wild heart quivers and shakes.
My soul yearns and then yearns some more.
You may need medical or psychological assistance. I cannot say. But there is nothing “wrong’ with you.
No matter what else you think, I hear you.
You are not alone.
And I agree that sometimes garbage trucks are definitely a bit too loud.
Counterpoint commentary by …
Marzonk! the Strong-Man
I find this question nonsense.
Is merely question of discipline!
You must PUSH OUT weakness.
Must PUSH AWAY pain.
Must DEFEAT any lingering failure!!!
And yet Marzonk! has also learned … not everything is gym simple.
Marzonk! now knows there is more than strength and frenzy.
If weight too heavy. If weight too much?
Then you must find spotter!
Yes, do best weight that is able.
But get help for weight that’s too much.
Get as much help as you need.
Don’t give up! All weight is lift-able.
Just takes time.
Marzonk! will spot you anywhere, anytime, my battle-fighting garbage-truck sufferer.
