Socially Acceptable Behavior?

Is it just me, or does it seem as though the lines that separate acceptable public/private behavior are being blurred? Take today for example; I went for a walk in a park near my apartment with the simple, and apparently naive, intention of enjoying the sunshine and unusually warm weather. What I experienced instead was fairly disturbing. First, I noticed a teenage couple who, by the looks of it, will soon be able to audition for that Mtv show 16 and Pregnant. These kids were all over each other. It was a disgusting display. I mean, right there in the park? Come on! What ever happened to your parent's basement? I was that age once upon a time and I remember the hormones flying around and being all jacked up on caffeine from Arizona Iced Teas all the time, but I had enough self control (read: respect) to exercise some discretion in obviously public areas. So did all of my friends. And all of their friends. And most people in general. Now, everywhere I look, somebody's tongue is dangerously close to coming into contact with somebody else's body parts. Maybe it's just me, but I'm disturbed by this new openness to public displays of that much affection. A little hand holding, maybe a quick kiss here or there, that's all fine. Near fornication, however, is not fine.

The second disturbing thing I witnessed was a guy riding his bicycle around the park while smoking. I mean, he was utilizing a good form of cardiovascular exercise AND smoking!? To me, this seems like pure insanity. Naturally, I was momentarily stunned when, suddenly, something even more shocking occurred. Two ladies wearing tracksuits and walking briskly passed by me and I realized they were smoking too! What is happening in the world? I'll admit to smoking the occasional cigarette when I've had a few mixed drinks, but I've never thought to myself, "I think I'll go for a run or hop on my bike now while I'm filling my lungs with this sweet poison." I've either been completely oblivious or else this is a new phenomenon. I'm not that into exercise or smoking, but putting the two together really disturbs me.

Just thought I'd update you about the interesting/disturbing things one can witness on a Monday afternoon jaunt in the park.

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