What Not to Bring Up at Thanksgiving Dinner
Zaire A. Davis
When the holidays arrive, students reconnect with family members and friends that we do not get the opportunity to see often. We all know how to smile and act polite when we see relatives, but a majority of us also do tend to silently pray in our head that they refrain from bringing up mostly stress-related topics. Why? Because this is our break and our only time to neglect all responsibilities and act like stuffing down four plates of mac and cheese will take away all our problems and issues.
1. Before the coats are off and I am able to snag a small bit of sweet potato pie, I hear it. The number one question. “Hey Zaire, how is school going?” It’s a simple question. One statement just shaped in a question form. Most would not understand why that question makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up. My grades are great. I’m involved in activities and organizations. I do community service weekly. I exercise regularly. If I do say so myself, I am a force to be reckoned with. But the problem with that simple yet forceful question, is that it brings back all the stress and the worries that it took just to make it to this point in the semester. I think of the many tearful breakdowns, the numerous times my credit card declined, the fact that I am still unemployed, and the fact that my stomach is still a little pudgy (I will be hiding away in cute forever 21 high-waisted jeans so I can eat as much I please) despite going to the gym every day. School is hard. I am not complaining. I am not ungrateful. I do know that people are genuinely curious about how I am doing and want to support me. I appreciate this. But please, if we are going to divulge into the details of this past grueling academic school year, wait until I have at least had my second plate!
2. Do not ask me if I a significant other or a special “lil friend. Until further notice (since a certain someone does not want to act correct) the answer is no. People, when I find that person, trust me, I will let you all know. Seriously. When the day arrives that I have found a person who is educated, smart, fine, and respectful who actually likes me back (I won’t believe it either), you will be informed. I’ll either give you a call, shoot out some announcements, send an email, or post pictures on all my social media accounts to let everyone on this earth know of my renewed happiness. Also don’t ask me when!! My relationship status has been dry since I came out the womb, so take the matter up with God if you have any questions or concerns.
3. I FORBID (using all caps for greater emphasis) anyone from asking me what I plan to do with my major. FORBID. It is crazy because what I am studying does actually excite me. I love mass communications and I love theatre. I am involved in related activities outside of my classes to enhance my knowledge on both subjects. My courses interest me and I want my future to somewhat consist of writing, speaking, acting, and eventually working for a TV production someday (preferably in front of the camera). Some people are accustomed to the idea that working a typical 9am-5pm behind a desk job is the strict definition of a successful working person. I don’t agree with that. Do not ask me about my interests or hobbies if my answers will only be met with doubt, criticism, and skepticism. There is nothing more disappointing then being enthusiastic about your goals and ambitions and seeing the light in the eyes of the person you are talking to dim. Or seeing someone form an opinion in their head before you have finished explaining the classes you have to take in the spring just by looking at the expression on their face. Support me. Do not ask if you do not want the honest truth. Students should be able to study whatever they want, wherever they want. We all work and grind at different paces and it is not up to anyone to decipher what is an acceptable major and what is not. So if you do not want to hear about the joys of mass communications, continue to watch the football game, eat, and let me be in peace.