The Conversation

Years and years ago I went on a school trip down to a museum in Toronto. After the tours were over we were given an hour to wander before we had to get back on the bus. I was hungry and decided to grab a quick meal at the McDonald's around the corner from where our bus was parked. I went in there and stood in line for a while before I paid for my order. After my order was done I grabbed the tray and went to take a seat. It wasn't until I sat down and took a look around that I noticed. I was one of only three white people in the whole restaurant. The majority were black. It wasn't something I was used to. I felt odd and out of place but nobody hassled me. I ate quietly and my initial unease went away. I finished my meal and put the wrappers in the garbage. I set my tray where it was supposed to be returned. I left and went back to the school bus without incident. Nothing bad happened. I was alone. Unescorted. A teenager. Vulnerable. Not a single bad thing happened. I was not hassled. I was not robbed. Everything was fine. That proves bigotry is complete and utter bullshit.