djpj69camaro

I accidentally opened up a neighbor's water bill today. I was careless and didn't look to see if the name on the envelope was mine. I usually assume my competent post-person never makes a mistake. Anyway, I felt bad and went to her apartment to return it. I waited till after 5PM, assuming she worked like normal people. When I got there, I wasn't expecting the third-degree investigation from her mother on the other side of the door. Apparently, people don't knock on doors these days. Human interaction can be scary for a lot of people. She wanted to know who I was, what I wanted, etc. I explained the situation through the door and clearly she didn't get it. She told me that I should wait for her daughter to get home. And so I asked, "When does she get back?" That prompted the mother to open the door and she said half-frightened and nervously, "Sorry, you scared me. I'm her mother. I'm just visiting."

Ok, I can understand if someone knocks on your door around 10PM or in the middle of the night. But seriously, it was almost 6PM. I thought I was pretty clear through the door that I wasn't a rapist or attacker. Or maybe I'm assuming too much. I guess, having been in TX and NYC for awhile, I don't have a problem with confrontation. People in CA have lost that personal closeness. In TX, people show some basic etiquette even if it's fake. In NYC, people tell each other what's on their mind all the time and they don't freak out about it much since it's universal. But in CA, I've noticed people are very suspicious of each other. Nobody is friendly anymore and can hold a regular conversation. Anyway, I thought I was clear I meant no harm and was very apologetic about opening up her mail. Oh well. That girl is going to wonder now who was the weirdo that took the time to deliver her mail in person.