One day during Freshman year, I ate lunch with a couple girls who were friends with one of my friends, but who I didn't really know apart from that friend. She was gone that day though, and I figured, hey, we'd eaten lunch before so I would just eat with them. So we were eating for probably about fifteen minutes or so, and it was really uncomfortable and awkward. Then, they got up, took their stuff, and said they needed to go to the bathroom, and they'd be right back. I'm not sure why they said that, because obviously they had no intention of returning. But I will say, I was almost relived because our conversation, or more realistically, the lack of one, had been incredibly awkward.
I think what I learned from this experience is that not everyone is going to want to be your friend, and that this is really ok. I think it has also helped me be more aware of people who are sitting on the edges of friend groups that I am involved in and helped me take more initiative to include them.
I transferred after freshman year, and at my new school I found the another girl who was new, and we were lunch buddies. We are still friends today too, so I am grateful this opportunity arose.
Another thing I learned is that, although it did kinda feel like the ultimate rejection when people literally got up and left, it really wasn't the end of the world. I found other people to sit with. I think something really helpful to remember is that "this too, shall pass."
The conversation had been awkward, and you were relieved when it was over! I love it! Your ability to recognize what was just a bit of ridiculous-ness seemed to help you judge rightly that there was nothing wrong with you... just some more strange happenings in the world of people. You have a strong character. Just keep “laughing at the days to come” ;) I wish I had understood this my freshman year
What an amazing way to turn your experience into something more positive. You are so strong and so amazing Laura!
I like your story. Not everyone at school and in life will like you its how you take it and move on. You went and sat with other people and life went on. Thank you for sharing this story!
Laura, I wish I had the wisdom you had when you were young. It would have saved me a lot of pain and insecurity. Thank you for sharing it so that others can see clearly that rejection isn't the end of the world. It can feel like that at the time but it isn't the final word in the story.
"Not everyone is going to want to be your friend, and that this is really ok." Yes girl!!! This is the most mature statement I've heard in a long time. "Although it did kinda feel like the ultimate rejection when people literally got up and left, it really wasn't the end of the world." I can't even add to this because you've said it all. You are wise beyond words!!! Thanks for sharing!
I really like your story. It was sweet and simple. And I like your message about it being okay if people don't want to be your friend. Not everyone is going to like you and that's okay. That's definitely a lesson that I still need to learn, because I always feel like I have to please everyone I meet. Thanks for sharing!