I’m an adult male who works downtown near a pretty nice park. Now that the weather is getting better, I’d like to get outside at lunch and work on juggling.
I’ve never done it because I don’t want to the the weirdo that’s juggling in the middle of the day, but I don’t really have any other time when I can practice in an open space.
Would it be weird if you were in a park and a grown up man was there juggling?
Edit: Thanks everyone for the words of encouragement. It probably says a lot about what I think about people who choose to mind their own business while engaging in things they enjoy in their spare time. I’ve learned a lot here. There also doesn’t seem to be a juggling/flow arts Lemmy community so maybe that’s something we can do.
Most people are going to think it’s cool, it’s not any more weird than playing the guitar on the street or playing on a public piano.
Good point, put a hat on the ground in front of you can you can make a buck or two… (this isn’t legal in every city, but it should be)
I don’t think so, but people might stare a bit if you do it in a busy place of the park.
I would look for a place with a bit of quiet. I saw people do a variety of things in parks. When they choose a quiet place, I’ll assume they want peace for there outside hobby and give them that.I mean, if you take “weird” to mean “abnormal”, then yes, it would be very weird. You will likely be the only person juggling in the park. But weird doesn’t mean bad - just different.
On the other hand, your coworkers probably spend their lunch breaks eating McDonalds and scrolling IG in their cars. Juggling in the park sounds like a way better use of your time.
Yes, it’s slightly weird. Yes, some people may whisper as they walk by or maybe even openly laugh a bit. People are rude.
But don’t let that stop you from doing what you love. You may have someone stop and tell you about a club. You may have a group of children see and be amazed at you. Good and bad can come from it, nobody here can tell you.
But in the end, the person who’s going to remember the most thet you were juggling on the park was you. So do you want to remember looking out and seeing nature, feeling the sun on your skin, happy you’re alive? Or do you want to remember how you were too afraid to go to the park?
Not trying to be rude. But I used to be the one afraid to go to the park. But since going, have I had a couple embarrassing times I’d rather forget? Yes, unfortunately. But honestly most of the time nothing really happens and im just happy to be alive. Few times I’ve made a friend and talked for a bit, but that’s few and far between.
Moral of the story, try do do what will make you happiest looking back in 10 years
Definitely needed to hear this. I think you’re right. I want to get better and I think I’m looking for an excuse to not do it. I’m past that thanks to this and many other comments.
If someone sees you and thinks “wow look at this weirdo” it’s on them, not you. And in truth they’re probably just jealous of someone that’s having a good time :)
As a professional juggler I say go for it! That’s where I practise and never had any bad experiences in public parks.
True story: I used to worry so much about what people thought. One day I did an experiment, dyed my hair lime green and went around to the shops, library etc. Nobody batted an eyelid and I realised it was just me.
Nowadays I do “weird” things in public every weekend, and people usually pay in advance!
Does it matter?
I don’t mean that in a dismissive way. Actually think about it.
Seems fine to me. I’d rather someone juggle than loudly play some instrument.
Nope, that is what third spaces are for. :)
It’s possibly the least disruptive thing you can do that may also entertain some passersby
I live near a big public park and it would be strange if there wasn’t someone juggling there on a sunny day.
Everything’s weird.
As long as you’re not actively hurting someone, do what you love.
I live in Chicago near a park and every now and then I’ve seen someone juggling there. I’d say it’s out of the ordinary but not in a bad way; it’s unique. Still a fun hobby and you’re not hurting anyone, so go for it!
If you’re good enough at it you might make some side money, win-win imo.
Depends on what your jiggling
