ddhr.org - Packing up early

I have this thing. Maybe it's because I'm a geek. Yeah that's probably it. Or maybe it's because I've been on the receiving end. The thing is: I get a little angry when people pack up early. Like in class when it's almost time to leave and people put their books away and put on their jackets. I'm not usually a courteous person, but would it be that hard to show a little courtesy and just wait 2 more minutes until the professor's done? Do you think you're saving time by putting on your jacket? Do you think you can make all kinds of noise and not disturb the other people in the room? Some people are trying to learn. Actually, I'm usually not trying to learn. And I'm usually not paying attention. But at least I sit there quietly and don't cause a commotion.

Or in church or Bible studies when people close their books and put their pens away. Here's what that says: "I'm no longer listening. I'm done. As soon as you stop talking, I can leave. Nothing you say after this point will be remembered. You're wasting your time." Can't you just wait? I feel like a mom here again: "Have patience, dear!" Just sit there and wait until it's over. Gosh! #psychology

Comments

Shara

Feb 7, 2006

I cannot agree with you more on this. I seriously cannot stand when people pack up early. It's something that's always bothered me to the point of almost screaming at people in class. That never actually happened, but I did picture myself doing it.

Dave

Wow I really didn't think anyone would agree with me. I sort of expected to get beat up after my next class.

Rich

I'm with you guys on this one. Its a blatant display of disrespect.

Wendy

Feb 8, 2006

I don't agree. Unfortunately, then the teacher/pastor says "And the last thing I have to say..." he/she's giving a blatant signal that the class is ending. Can you put a book away or prepare to leave when he says this - I think so. I usually keep my notebook out in case there is something important, but otherwise I'm prep-ing to leave.

Maybe it started with racing to the next class in our LONG high school and only having 4-5 minutes to do it. You have to be fast, man.

For anyone who doesn't know, Wendy's the biggest packing-up-early person on earth.

When the speaker says something about his/her last point, it's an indication that you can start packing up soon. They do that so that people don't feel the need to pack up early as a means to point out the fact that time is up.

If I ever become a teacher, which I sometimes think about, I will have to think of a way to prevent students from doing this to me. If I come up with anything, I'll let you know so people will stop packing up while you're in mid-sentence. :)