The I Don't Want to Talk to You Whiplash

Have you ever been out and about when you see someone approaching that you know? As they get close, you smile and raise your hand to say hi when they suddenly, abruptly turn their head away from you, so sharply it could give them a whiplash. And they walk right by without speaking, acting like they don't see you.

This has happened to me. I know they did see me, but, for whatever reason, they didn't want to speak so they did the whiplash thing. Usually it's individuals that I don't know real well but never had any quarrels with. People I consider friendly acquaintances.

I always wonder why people do that. Actually it would be healthier for them to nod or wave and just keep on walking. I've never asked any whiplash people why they do that but I know how it makes me feel.

So I'm giving my opinion on why I think they do it and what I think goes through their mind.

Remember, this is just my opinion.

I believe the whiplash people are thinking this, "I am special and better than you. I'm a member of an elite class in which you don't belong. If I acknowledge you it would give the appearance that I'm accepting you in my special group. I'd rather risk breaking my neck than to let you in."

There's also some people who whiplash sometimes when they see you but other times they speak and are as friendly as can be. These people confuse me even more. You never know what to expect from them.

Now, I know it's possible that sometimes these folks are having a bad day, their mind is elsewhere and they really don't see me. And it could be they're just focused, at that time, on something very important to them and deep in thought. But it happens too often for that excuse to cover it all.

Here's what I think the part-time whiplasher is thinking.

"I'm special and better than you. But I am kind and compassionate. If a perfect person like me speaks to a lowlife like you it will make your day. So for my charity donation this month, I will speak to you."

Remember, this is just my opinion. I could be wrong.

If I've made a mistake on this I hope some of the whiplashers will call and let me know what's up

Keep smiling.

Linda Messmer can be reached at 812-448-8725.