What I Hear

Clicking Heels.

The sounds of my heels fill the empty, hollow Manhattan streets. For the first time I’m aware that with every step I take, everyone is alerted of my presence. Within moments, I’m trying to figure out how to walk without making so much noise. Maybe if I walk slower? Walk faster? Walk on my toes? There must be an answer - but I still haven’t found it. 

Whistling Wind.

Looking down at the ground, the quiet atmosphere is hauntingly beautiful. The only sounds to be heard are the wind and trees dancing back and forth, always to the same tune. Manhattan, known for the hustle and bustle, feels entirely like a ghost town. And for the first time, I’m grateful to be able to experience it.

Rustling Bushes.

Ascending the park stairs feels different this time. Keeping my eyes to the ground, the bushes give life to new animals which cannot be seen. To my right there’s a rustle and to the left I hear the meow of a cat. At some point I feel like I’m in a jungle. A place I frequent so often, suddenly seems foreign when I’m blindfolded with the sound raised all the way up. Finally, I’ve made it to the top of the stairs, with a completely new outlook.

Tinkling Chimes.

Entering my favorite bubble tea spot, the chimes above the door instantly alert workers that there is a new customer. Was that always there? The sound of the machine captives my ears similar to the way the whirl of a washing machine captivates one’s eyes.

Clicking Heels.

Around me, I hear the faint sounds of heels going click clack. Immediately, my mind focuses on that one sound, determined to find another person making the same sound. Shortening my movements, the sounds sound closer and closer. Soon our steps have become one. Click Clack. As I stop at the edge of the street, the sounds stop. Finally! I’ve found my heeled companion.

Despite using my headphones as an invisibility cloak, the sounds of my shoes, and the change in my pocket, instantly give me away. I may try to tune out the world every day, but there’s always one person who can hear the sounds I make. So I guess I’m not as invisible as I try to be.