Uncomfortable

I am usually not the “uncomfortable” type. I tend to go anywhere and hold my head up high. I have to, I am setting an example for my children. However, I have found myself in a few uncomfortable situations this past weekend. What was supposed to be a wonderful weekend getaway, and it was, had moments of discomfort.

Why are you speaking to me so combatively and looking at me as though I don’t belong? We can all sit at the table.

I dare not say those words. Already I hate to be the center of attention and the louder he spoke to me, the more they all stared, the smaller I felt. I just wanted to run. I tried to apologize, for – ? To calm the situation? It didn’t matter. With his mind made up and everyone staring. What more was there to do? I chose silence. My head held high, I took a deep breath, asked my kids if they were okay, and we continued on with our meal. I had paid to be there, just as they had. We belonged. Still with all the stares, I pretended not to notice, I felt uncomfortable.

It was just a bad moment…

I admit, I went back to the hotel room, closed myself in the bathroom and cried, but only for a minute. I took a deep breath, washed my face and continued on.

Several hours later, my daughter asked me a question, that really made me think about the different interactions we had on the other side of our state, also reminding me of life in the southeast… My conclusion: There are those who fear what they do not understand and refuse to ever get to know/understand. Rather than trying to gain knowledge or understanding, it’s better for them to assert a sense of dominance or power, by way of belittling, yelling, posturing… Even if not necessary.

I hope I responded with love. I hope I showed that people from all cultural backgrounds can sit down together and have a nice meal. It was a bad moment, but it didn’t ruin our day☀️

*Original Photo*