Jessica and I were like sisters, and because of that we even fought like sisters. She was my best friend through middle and high school. We knew each other better than anyone, which meant we knew how to hurt each other better than anyone. During one particular fight I learned just how powerful language is and how great is our need for it. I’m not even sure what the quarrel was all about now; I only remember Jessica, in her anger, decided she wouldn’t speak to me. So, for about a 24 hour period she cut off all communication with me. No matter what I said, she would not even acknowledge me. She was seething, and all I wanted to do was make amends. In those 24 hours I felt so small.
“I’m sorry Jessica. Please,” I pleaded with her. She turned her face from me and continued rummaging in her locker. I touched her arm. She brusquely pulled it away, slammed her locker door shut and stormed off. I sighed.
Samantha, a mutual friend, was across the hall talking to some boys. I caught her eye and waved her over to me. She rolled her eyes and proceeded to talk to the guys. When the bell rang and her flirty friends drifted off, I caught up to her on the way to the class we both had next.
“Hey Sam, are you mad at me too?” I asked. She didn’t reply. “Oh great, you too! What did Jessica tell you?” Still no reply.
Being denied communication was a very disorienting experience. It caused a lot of frustration and belittlement.
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