Group Behavior Micro-Agressions and the WORLD of HUMANS

I do not understand group behavior. Or perhaps I do!

FEAR CONTROL, FEAR CONTROL, FEAR CONTROL

How come it is only just occurring to me now, that I do not fit the mold? Being self employed for 42 years?

During the pandemic there were a group of us who swam every morning when the pool opened at 6AM sharp. They'd line up in the parking lot  at 5:45 AM and chitter-chatter about loving right wingers. (the worst part).

Now the pandemic is over and I have returned to my pre-pandemic time slot and the pandemic swimmers are annoyed with me.

If I dare show up at 6 they'll say, I am tricking, teasing, betraying, invading.

They only want me full-time on their schedule in lane 3 or they'll continue to subject me to abuse.

I did come to despise these folks back in 2020-21. after 14 hours a week with them I was fed up with their quirks, prejudices, obsessions, and relationships.

So I woke up one day last June and realized I had a choice!! And I stayed away from the 6AM time slot for a YEAR.

Occasionally I do like an early swim, when I have been up since 1:30AM. Then it's not 'first thing'.

Luckily I found another pool that opens at 5:30AM and has an outdoor and indoor facility.