The Laundromat

Yes, it is true. I had never been to a laundromat until yesterday.

I am new to Berrien Springs. I am new to graduate school life. I am new to living in my own apartment. And I am new to taking dirty clothes to a public arena for cleansing.

Apparently, that was obvious.

"Are you rich or somethin'?" the laundromat employee implored, with both the attitude and voice inflection often used to characterize large-built African-American women, which she happened to be.

I gave her a blank look, not following.

"You never been to a laundromat before?"

I grew sheepish. "Well...I'm definitely not rich...but no, I haven't been to a laundromat before" I admitted, then chuckled. That obvious huh? Might as well have fun with the stereotype of the white, ignorant, rich girl. I'm used to it after all, having lived with it in Africa for the past nine months.

I gave an embarrassed smile and we both laughed together. "Well, these washers here are $1.75, those are $2.25, those are $2.75." She pointed to the dozens of machines.

I then began taking my time loading up the washer, actually reading thoroughly through the directions on how to ensure your clothing gets properly cleaned, like only a first-time laundromat user would. :)

But by the time the afternoon was over, I left feeling much more cultured. I had experienced a laundromat!

So, life in Berrien Springs. They say Andrews University is the 16th nationwide in diversity. They say caucasions are the minority.

You know, I enjoy being the minority.

I am enthralled with any culture (and the people in it) that isn't my own. It's the lady at the laundromat. It's the animation. It's the humor. It's the voice inflections. Yes, even the attitude.

Maybe this is because of the lack of diversity growing up as a North Dakotan girl. Whatever it is, I think I'll fit in just fine.