Recently I went to a local Dunkin Donuts for breakfast before work. Needless to say the restaurant was overcrowded with early morningers needing their daily dose of java. Surprisingly I was in no hurry as I had some time on my hands. There was a gentleman in front of me in line. He turned to view the length of the line and smiled as he realized I was in his direct line of view. I returned his smile, Good morning. Morning I replied. My phone vibrated, I checked to see if I received a text, there was none, only my daily bible verse. I scanned it quickly and redeposited the electronic device back into the contents of my handbag. When I looked up to reassess the line the gentleman was staring at me. A bit startled I recovered quickly and smiled again. Is this line even moving, I offered. Slowly he responded. I took the moment to consider his appearance; casually dressed and not necessarily unattractive. Excuse me miss. Yes? Do you work in the area? Yes, just around the corner, if this line every moves I can get to work in about two minutes. We both chuckled. The mood is very light and easy. He then initiated what I consider the run down: age, occupation, children, living situation, marital status, etc. He was 31, two children, worked for a local company, had moved back in with his parents “recently”, and was single. I’ll be honest, he replies; I think you’re very pretty. Again I smile and begin to say thank you but immediately retreat as I realize he is not finished. You are a bit intimidating but I just can’t pass you up. Ever have that feeling like you’re in an easy groove then suddenly the music stops? No longer flattered by his comment I ask, why an I intimidating? Without even a though he responds, BECAUSE YOUR WELL SPOKEN. I quickly recomposed the “wow” look that I’m sure was plastered on my face, thanked him for his compliment and gave him the wrong number when he asked for it. Needless to say I am in complete and utter shock at the ignorance of some people. Should every conversation begin with, ay yo wassup? Should I be referred to or respond to shawty? I am at a loss? When did proper English and pronunciation of the English language become intimidating? Do to my profession and home training I am accustomed to speaking correctly. Among friends: yea, huh, whateva, and hell run rampant as there is no concern for vocabulary after all your inner circle should be well aware of your limitations and first impressions have long ago been dismissed as trivial. I will admit more than likely I would not have given the gentleman my contact information (simply due to his living situation and number of children, which is another discussion for another time. However, any inclination I may have had to allow any further communication was completely negated after his second comment, after all up until that point the entire exchange had been quite pleasurable. Seriously, how effective could a future be (as friends, lovers, etc.) if I am intimidating? Should I “dummy down” to protect your manhood or male ego? When did being able to clearly understand a person’s words become an issue? There is no room for miscommunication because I ensure you clearly hear what is being said. Whether or not an individual can comprehend my statements is another issue all together. Now to some this may seem like a rant and I concur it very well may be, however the issue of ignorance cannot be disputed!
I’m Jus Sayin
Niqi P.
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