Observations on the Ranges of Human Types

    Today I was a volunteer docent  at my local museum. My duties primarily involve greeting and guiding visitors to the four different venues. I consider myself to be sufficiently versed in the collections to do an adequate job in some sections and a more expert job in others. However you could say I have a range of expertise more suited to some sections than others.  Regarding ranges, I find it fascinating to observe the ranges of characteristics of our visitors.

    First, today was a study in the range of ages of visitors.   Our youngest visitor was a four year old who was extremely bright and inquisitive.  He was a delight to interact with.  On the range of responsiveness, he was extraordinary.   Moving along on the range of age we also had visitors of young adult to middle age to more senior and perhaps even as ancient as I am. In each category there was also a range of responsiveness to our overtures to assist the with their visits.   Some were satisfied to simply walk around on their own without hearing any of the background stories we as guides can deliver.  Others, accept limited historical introductions.  A few were interested in more extensive information that we can deliver. Such it is to be interacting with the general public. At the end of the day, our guide group gathers to debrief our range of experiences with the guests.  The debrief often leads to amazement that there are so many different behaviors of the human species.

    Finally, I am continuing to think about the ranges of human types of authors of poets and prose.   More to come in a few days.