CI Moment

In the discussion lists for cochlear implants, people write about what’s called a “CI moment.” This is a description of a new experience in hearing with the CI.
I just had a major CI moment. I kept hearing soft rhythmic beeps. I asked Paul what it was, but he said he didn’t hear anything. I moved on and went back to what I was doing. No, I still hear the sounds and asked Paul again.
“Can you hear this?” he asked.
“Yes.”
“OK, how about this?” he asked.
“No,” I replied.
“You’re hearing the music from my earphones.”
Picture Meryl’s mouth dropping in shock. It is soft, but amazing nonetheless. Paul is about seven feet away from me and he says the music is not loud.
Wow.
The music? Metallica’s One.
After recovering from shock, I freak out. I listen to music at work with my headphones and hearing aids. The music is turned up loud so I can hear it. If I’m hearing this music that’s not turned up loud, then how much of the music do my co-workers hear coming from my ear phones!? It’s embarrassing based on the music I play.