A Random Conversation While Waiting in NYC

2-Minute Take

Lost Bread bakery & mill, Union Square Farmers Market, NYC - Photo by the Author

Is the “New York Minute” gone? New Yorkers have a reputation for impatiently rushing everywhere, but is it still true?

At the farmers market this past Saturday, I stopped at one of the bread bakeries to make a purchase. A security guard was holding the space while the person working there took a short break. As he and I spoke, a woman joined us and a lively conversation ensued – starting with the beautiful coat she wore and moving on to the best bread in the market* and the market in general.

A man joined the line and the conversation shifted to Za’atar, all things oregano, Turkey (the country not the bird) and its bazaars, and more that is simply not coming to mind as I write. It seemed that we could have talked for hours, but the person working there returned and our wonderful conversation came to an end. Thinking of them continues to bring a smile.

Later in the afternoon, I passed a fairly long line of people patiently waiting their turn to enter a popular store. I couldn’t help but notice how many were talking and laughing together. It could be that they knew each other, or just maybe strangers found a spark of joy in a random conversation, as I had. No bread was involved.

I have a feeling there is more to slowing down here than meets the eye. Much has been written about the desire (hunger?) for more human connection - beyond our communication in the virtual world. It seems that we are more open now, more inviting of that connection. That can’t just be in my world, can it?

By the way, if you are driving in NYC and hesitate a fraction of a second after a red light turns green, you will hear an explosion of sound that confirms the New York Minute is alive and well. It’s just morphing a bit.

* Did I buy that bread? Of course I did – and it’s delicious!