Ah, Thanksgiving Break: the coveted time off from school to relax and recharge before the end-of-semester crunch. It is a time to enjoy the company of loved ones, stuff your face, and muscle through crowds to get the best Black Friday deal (if you are into that). Quite possibly the most exciting part of Thanksgiving Break is getting to see people from your hometown who you probably have not seen since leaving for school back in August. But, be forewarned, as not all of these encounters will be cheery and fun. Here is what to expect if you run into the five people you could see while home for Thanksgiving:
1. Your best friends.
Well, duh! Of course you are going to see your girls! The trials and time constraints of college have kept you apart for months. Thanksgiving Break is the ideal time to catch up on all the gossip you have missed out on as well as filling in each other on all the exciting things that have happened to you this semester. Sometimes, your friends may seem different to you, but that is okay! Everyone has their own unique college experience and, at the end of the day, they are still your ride-or-dies forever.
2. Your ex-best friend.
With growth comes change, as well as the shedding of some people from your life. This too is okay and normal (despite some beliefs to the contrary). Depending on how your last encounter ended, this run-in could be pleasant or really awkward. Just remember to always take the high road. No one ever looks bad saying “hello”.
3. Your ex.
Regardless of how you left off, this encounter is probably the worst. No further explanation necessary. End of story.
4. That person who you kind of-sort of knew in high school and you see them and they see you and you are both not sure if you should acknowledge each other…
Okay, forget about what I said about seeing your ex; this is the most awkward encounter you will have (if you’re anything like me. In other words, a living, breathing mass of awkwardness). You are both not quite sure how to approach the situation, but just know they feel as confused about how to broach a “hello” as you do. But simply smiling and saying “hi!” really never hurt anyone! You just have to initiate to break the awkward tension.
5. Someone who has known you forever.
This person could be anyone: a friend’s mom, your elementary school principal, your former babysitter, a police officer, or a family friend. Be prepared, they definitely want to know how school is going and will gush about how old you are and how your age makes them feel old. While at the time you might feel uncomfortable with or annoyed by all of their questions, just know they come from a caring place.
The best feeling in the world truly is heading back home after a stressful semester and knowing people there love and support you. Cherish these encounters, and tack them onto the list of things to be grateful for this holiday season.
Cheers!