How are you?
My column could've just ended because those three meaningless words have become the ultimate conversation stopper ... except the problem is that this phrase is also the ultimate conversation starter. In the already too-awkward world of personal interaction - because let's face it, we never have these problems on Facebook or e-mail - something must be done to salvage what is left of a normal passing conversation.
We already have tactics for the dreaded "Oh no, oh no, I know this person, but we're on opposite ends of the colonnade and must walk toward each other. When do I make the move to wave?" Situation: whatever brick surface you're near becomes the most fascinating thing in the entire universe, suddenly you have 20 texts and finally you wave to the person, pretending like you didn't see him slow-motioning toward you for 10 minutes. This, we have mastered; I can whip out my cell phone, punch in my voicemail code and adopt my "I'm concentrating really hard but I'm actually listening to a robot telling me I have no messages" face in a split second.
Avoiding people altogether is also second-nature now. You walk with a purpose, looking either straight ahead or directly at the ground. Look slightly intimidating or not in the mood to talk and you're golden; friends and those random people you met partying the first night of first year alike will know better than to disrupt you from your self-induced trance.
Now, it is the unavoidable conversation that calls for more than a wave but less than a heart-to-heart that trumps our conversationally challenged college. Both parties involved typically ask, "How are you?" at the same time, then giggle or say "Jinx, you owe me a soda"
Read More
What your contraception of choice says about you
By CD Life staff | 52 minutes agoThere is no time like the present to consider the many birth control options available to us, each with their own unique personality.
It’s okay not to be okay
By Mai Hukuoka | January 8, 2025Whether talking to a friend, a loved one or a professional, it is so necessary, and human, to need more than you can provide for yourself.
Taking a break at Tangerines Kitchen
By Charley Thomas | January 6, 2025What the restaurant somewhat lacks in ambiance, it compensates for in tasty dishes and prompt service.
