Wednesday, June 19, 2019;
As an Arizona Native, I have grown familiar with the change of seasons both in the desert and up in the high country, therefore, I rarely feel the need to speak so surprised of the weather; instead, I accept and appreciate it regardless of the desert heat, Coconino frost, ruthless monsoons, and near perfect northern summer nights. It was no coincidence I had been in Flagstaff during this time. Despite the extended hours of daylight, this particular evening approached without warning, and I was in dire need of the outdoor air. So I began my stroll into town. I followed a familiar path I have carved in the past through NAU’s clean cut campus- a twenty-minute walk through peaceful lawns and ‘no-thru traffic’ asphalt roads. I’d be lucky to encounter others along my way considering the Summer-break silence.
Shortly into the walk I overheard some chatter and laughter up ahead around the concrete bend. I spotted a group of twelve young adults sitting in a circle enjoying what sounded like some innocent fun. So, I decided to approach and ask if they had room for one more.
I was immediately thrown off as the group except for two went silent. The first words I heard sounded something like, “No, sorry. We’re almost done.”
I countered, “Really, you can’t just open up the circle so I can join the party?”
“No thanks, we’re good,” they replied.
I understand I may come off as a threat while walking tall, confident and strong. But that is no way to treat someone showing absolutely no disrespect, and nothing but kindness.
Again, I said, “What do you mean? I am just asking to chime in on the conversation.”
A young guy and gal were doing the talking at this point. She continues to say, “We’re almost done.” He follows up, “We’re not interested,” as if I was there attempting to sell a discontinued product.
Though, I believe it was fear that ultimately dictated their decision to reject my request to join their conversation. So, I called them out expressing disappointment, “What’s with you guys? Y’all seem scared”
Another quivering “No thank you.”
I quickly shifted the tone of my voice as if I was addressing misbehaved, less-sophisticated, unenlightened individuals. My next statement was directed particularly towards the other ten who kept silent, “Y’all better loosen up in a world like this. Opportunities are going to fly right by you if you continue unspoken as you are right now."
Unwilling to wait for a reply, I continued on my way. Meanwhile, I heard chuckling behind me. I was pleased to know I hadn't killed their mood completely. The weather was nice and I continued having the time of my life!
Please read my observations below:
I understand my appearance can be intimidating, especially when wearing a snake skin headband and cowboy boots. I am also aware that tension and fear continue to linger throughout NAU's campus as a result of the shooting back in 2015. Overall, I didn’t take it personal but I was still affected by it whether I liked it or not.
The truth is no one likes to be rejected. In fact, I believe it is a large reason many keep to themselves in public. Sadly, I notice younger generations are more likely to avoid eye contact, smile to a stranger, and/or simply say ‘hello'. Despite the rejection I experienced, I continue to make every attempt to be friendly, sociable, approachable and accepting of everyone.
The following night I had a few memorable encounters with folks most would otherwise ignore due to the ragged clothing on their backs and obvious signs of intoxication and threat. Well, considering my experience the evening prior, the last thing I wanted was to impose the same disrespects upon someone else. And for that reason alone, I am forever grateful for being rejected.
Want to know more- who I met or what I did? Subscribe to my hand-written letters and I’ll write you!
Thank you for your support!
-Son of Mark
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