I’m an Indian so I’m unfortunately forced to go to large Indian parties that I’d rather skip. Occasionally they turn out to be pretty fun. For the most part I stumble through them uncomfortably and surrounded by unfamiliar faces. The disparity in ages between myself and the other party goers is usually the culprit behind this sensation. There’s plenty of adults to talk to but I prefer not to have my ACT and college prospects be the highlight of every conversation. Then there’s a handful of younger kids that have a great time running around. These little people are usually the fun part of my night (Indian kids are the best) at any Indian party but after a while I succumb to my exhaustion. I also get tired of being used as human playground.

Then there’s the people that seem to be my age. Often, there’s a few cute girls mixed in the bunch that catch my eye. The issue with this age group is that they all seem to know each other. If the party’s not too big I feel alright approaching them and joining in on the fun. However, when there’s a sizable crowd of people that all seem to know each other, it can be difficult to have the balls to go up and introduce myself. Those parties are the one’s that piss me off. I just kind of sit there imagining a fearless version of me that would love to walk up to that crowd and say a witty introduction. Unfortunately that’s not me and I opt to mope around instead.

I was at a big party like this recently and I wondered what I’d do if the tables were turned. I think of the way I act when I’m in the safe company of my friends. It’s much easier to care less about what others think in that situation. So if I was at a big Indian party surrounded by a group of ten-ish friends/acquaintances, would I help out the lonely kid in the room? Would I even notice him/her? Maybe it’s something we should all think about next time we’re at a party or large social event. Help out that lonely person and purge them of that dreaded awkwardness. Invite that buddy into your group. It’s probably more fun for everyone that way.