I know that everyone in America, nay, the WORLD, plans on visiting Mississippi for a riveting roller coaster ride of adventure in their lifetime, but if you’re not from the South, there are some definite things that you need to know before visiting. And I love you guys, and don’t want you to end up in an awkward situation while in the South. Therefore, I present:
THE TOP TEN THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING THE SOUTH:
1. When first moving to Mississippi, I ended up in a very confusing situation. It was my 7th grade English class, and the teacher asked me a question. It went down like this:
Teacher: Okay, Olivia? (making me answer something.)
Innocent Me: Um, yep.
Teacher: Excuse me…?
Innocent and Cute Olivia: Yes…it is a comma…
Teacher: Yes, ma’am?!
Inner Olivia: Why is she calling me ma’am…
Kid Behind Me: Say yes ma’am!
Adorable Me: Uh…yes…ma’am.
Teacher: Satisfied look on her face.
Now really. They all knew I was the new kid, and no one could help me out on that? No warnings or anything to say ma’am or sir. So the Number ONE thing you have to know not to end up in a weird situation where everyone thinks you’re a wolf-child is to add a Ma’am or Sir onto the end of EVERYTHING you say, just about. If it’s iffy, go for it anyway.
2. Not everyone is stupid in the South. It’s a place filled with loads of brilliant people, but characterized by stereotypes that aren’t exactly flattering. The Number TWO thing you should know is that the South isn’t stupid. Sure, some people are, but there’s stupid people everywhere.
3. Third, don’t say anything super liberal without expecting someone to try to shoot you, stab you, or wait for you in the parking lot after school. During the last election, I voiced my opinion agaisnt the 30 something other people in each class I had, and sure, there was some crying on my part. And sure, I got stabbed a little. But you have to be ready to get up and fight for it, so don’t say anything if you are tired, ill, or have to pee.
4. We do have electricity and indoor plumbing. And also a Walmart. And many other modern technological advances.
5. And this is really just in general, people don’t know each other just because they live in the same state. “OH, you live in Mississippi?! I have a cousin in Jackson! Do you know her, name’s Pam Yoodlehooper!?” (And how funny is that last name I made up, I should get that name.)
6. The South is not Sepia-toned. However, if you wear the right sunglasses, it is. And I do like my South in that shade of brown.
7. There are gypsies, and they are cool. But don’t let them paint your driveway.
8. People are VERY nice. It’s crazy. So smile at anyone you pass that looks at you, and say hello. There’s no pushing, etc, just be chill and strike up a conversation with the old lady in front of you in line.
9. People drive like crazy drunk squirrel kittens on acid. Check your mirrors frequently.
10. The South is not nearly as bad as people make it out to be, not nearly as terrible as I might make it sound when I’m in a bad mood. It really is a great place, you just have to get over the culture shock. Then it’s nice warm weather and beautiful fields of fluffy grass, along with marvelous guys and a lot of FANTASTIC food.