[Spudx7]

I worked as a waitress in a small town restaurant while in high school. I forgot to turn the CD player on one evening and the dining room was silent save for the sounds of people chewing. People started talking the instant I turned it on.

I agree that the “background” noise has gotten too loud. I have left clothing stores b/c I can't stand the noise.

[Paved Paradise]

Many a sale has been lost from me due to exactly that! I HATE having to talk over loud music in a restaurant. One of the things Europe does do better than us. Another reason I like al fresco dining, which is limited here in Ohio, where I live (sigh). I have read a few good articles on “noise pollution,” and how this incessant bombardment of noise - from the beep-beep-beep of backing up trucks to the constant blaring of music in every store one visits. No wonder people are stressed and depressed these days. BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD. God knows we need peace and tranquility - at least in the good old U.S.A.