A lot of college students feel uncomfortable eating alone in a dining hall. They think it will make them look strange and alienated from their peers.
At a school like Smith with set dining hours for every meal, this is particularly relevant, since everyone at the same time.
We call our dorms "houses," and my housemates have designated "Talbot tables" where Talboteers can eat together at any meal.
Today, I experienced what every Talboteer dreads: there was no more room at the Talbot table. I got to lunch right at the exact moment when one Talbot table was filled, but the others were completely empty. Since I didn't bring anyone with me to the dining room, I would have to eat alone.
So, I brought my tofu and rice and ate to an empty table. And, much to my surprise, I found that I really enjoyed my meal. The silence was so calming -- I was engaging with myself and my food on a wholly personal level. The act of eating a hot meal by yourself is an almost meditative experience. I didn't know that a break from the constant noise of social interaction was just what I needed today, but eating alone gave me that.
I started thinking about all of the reasons we are afraid of eating alone and came up with a list of rebuttals to all of those arguments.
Why it's okay to eat alone,
1. No one will even notice you
Really, do you honestly think people are going to think anything of you eating alone? They have their own lives to worry about. You do you, boo.
2. You can enjoy the silence
No table-mates means no idle chit-chat about stuff you don't care about to roll your eyes to. Enjoy the fact that there's nothing to annoy you in this moment.
3. You can savor your food more
When you're not focused on conversation, your focus goes entirely to your food. You can pay more attention to the food that is nourishing your body and appreciate its texture and flavor more.
4. You can take your time eating
Eat at your own pace -- devour your food in one second or take your time with each bite. It's your decision -- no one is there to judge you for it.
5. You can eat whatever you want
Eat that extra cannoli. Drink the copious amount of coffee your friends judge you for -- this meal is for you, not for them! You're the only one who can judge what you're eating.
