One of the things I love about traveling is that no matter where you go, there will be things that are different, but there will also be things that inevitably remind you of home. Take this image for instance. Shibuya is one of the busiest places in Japan and is well known for the large sidewalks that people walk across every day. I remember crossing it myself in the rain. What sounds come to mind when you think of the bustling city? What about when it’s raining? For me, soothing sounds.
Despite the fast pace of the city, the rain calms me. I can envision light Jazz playing in the background. It’s as though everything is fast and slow at the same time. Fun to think about, no? Rain can drown out most sounds, so in a way, naturally quiet places and naturally loud places sound the same. The next time you feel like you need a break, think about the sound of rain and some jazz and perhaps it might help you relax and think of home!
This is amazing! I have never thought of how something like rain even in a major city can be calming if you just slow down and take a look and listen. Reminds me to just stop in my busy day, even for a moment and enjoy my surroundings. Awesome post.
Hi, Joel. When I first looked at the image without the audio, I got a sense of busy urban life, people crowded on the sidewalk, bright lights, lots of noise and traffic rushing by. It reminded me of Times Square in NYC, and my senses being overwhelmed when I was there. But when I saw the rain in the photo and added in the audio, they acted as a reminder to slow down, be present, and listen. With that context, my sense of the photo shifted. I thought about the sound of the rain as it drowns out other noise, and where all of these people might be rushing off to – maybe a place of comfort; home and family. So, I think your image and audio had the intended effect. Thanks for sharing your reflections.