by Grits Malone

Standing or Sitting?

That's become quite an emotionally charged public proposition in recent years given professional sporting events and the playing of our national anthem. I actually am posing the question in the context of attending a musical concert.

Okay, here's the deal; I've been to many concerts and, as my disposable income has modestly increased, so too has my desire to become more comfortable at such events (ignoring how my modestly increased age MAY be contributing to the same). At any rate, at my last concert, my wife and I purchased seats to enjoy the sounds of Keith Urban. All was well and good as we settled into our seats, politely 'squenched' in to allow others to pass in our aisle and gained a mild buzz (pacing ourselves, I think is what folks from my generation call it).

Even with the warm up band, we remained comfy and could see the performers on stage; this was about to change. As soon as Keith appeared, as if some crowd dog whistle had been blown, everyone stood up — well almost everyone.

There's the dilemma; do I stand or do I sit?

Sitting, I can't really see the stage any longer, although it's somewhat mitigated by looking at the large screens to the left and right. As I debate myself, I realize that I didn't pay 'good seat money' to watch a live video feed. I wanted to see directly onto the stage! If I stand, am I being inconsiderate of other seat ticket holders behind me? For those already standing, I see glances from the corner of their eyes; am I making them feel bad because they're standing? Do they think I'm some kind of dud for not dancing? So I begin to sway in my seat, but then I feel like I'm bringing more awkward, "loser" attention to myself.

So, I stand!! Whew, such a big decision in less than five minutes. Besides, who would blame me for doing so with the playing of "Kiss a Girl.' I begin to look around in the corner of my eyes to see if those sitting around me are bothered. I can't really tell and I don't think an informal survey, no matter how well-meaning, is appropriate. So for the rest of the concert, I stand and then sit during slower numbers (caught my breath with 'Blue Ain't Your Color').

What did I learn? Well, it's more like what I remembered:

Regardless if I paid for a seat or a piece of the lawn, I paid to have a good time.

As long as I am respectful of others (social cues are important), I should feel confident in sitting or standing. The level of alcohol is certainly another factor and one that can grease the skids of social awkwardness. To be clear, this is my journey and I'm freely admitting my own lack of confidence that such a state manifests.

So, go, Raise 'Em Up, have fun and be yourself. No need to be a Stupid Boy or The Fighter.

Until next time ...
Grits ..

Grits Malone is a new guest blogger for As Told Over Brunch. You can expect to hear more of his Bacon Bits from time to time! Please welcome him in the comments and let him know if you’re a concert sitter or stander.