Being from Massachusetts, I've noticed some of the stereotypes other states have for us, whether it be while traveling or at my college in New York. I figured I'd set the record state on all those preconceived notions you all have about us.
It seems we have a bit of a bad-rep as being stuck up or posh, while also being terrible drivers. That's probably just 'cuz we're better than everyone else anyways, and you're supposed to go 80 mph on 95! How else would we get anywhere quickly?
Our T system is shot to all hell.
1. Not all of us drop our 'R's
For most people, this only comes out if you're from the city and the surrounding area itself or if your upset (don't ask me why; it just happens). We can all pull of the accent when necessary though, and yes, we do get offended when it's not done properly. Also, we don't "Pahk the cah in Havahd Yahd" because that would be illegal.
2. And not all of us say "wicked" all the time
OK, it may slip out from time to time, but "wicked" is a good thing. It's probably one of the best compliments you could get from someone from Massachusetts.
3. No, I don't have a Boston accent because I'm not from Boston
It's just easier to tell people that you're from Boston than to try to explain what impossible-to-pronounce town your actually from, like Leominster (Lem-in-ster), Gloucester (Gloss-ter), Leicester (Les-ter), Scituate (Sitch-u-it) and, of course, Worchester (Wuh-ster). Yes, we know its ridiculous, and yes we expect you to learn how to say it properly anyways. That means you out-of-state reporters.
4. No, Boston is not exactly like what you see in the movies
Films like "The Departed," "The Fighter," "The Town," "Good Will Hunting," "Black Mass" and "Ted" give people different perspectives of the city, but none really give the full effect. Yes, Boston has its fair share of crime and mob activity, but so does every city. One thing they manage to capture without fail, however, is the emphasis that is placed on family and neighborhood loyalty that not only exists within Boston but throughout all of Massachusetts. Say what you will about our sports teams or the terrible accent, but we'll stick by each other, and if you manage to worm your way in, you too.
5. Also, the only good celebrities are the ones from our state
Yeah, sure we love others, but give me the choice between John Krasinski or Brad Pitt, I'll always choose my boy from Newton, Mass. From Chris Evans to Amy Poehler, we've got a lot to be proud off (including the Wahlbergs, even if they are from Dorchester). And yes, the Matt Damon-Ben Affleck Bromance is the picture of a perfect relationship in our eyes. #MattAndBenForever
6. We don't blindly follow our sports teams
We worship them. The Celtics, The Pats, The Sox and The Bruins all play a symbolic role for the strength of our state, and we'll be die-hard fans until you put us in the ground. Hell, we made up a curse to justify our continued support of a team with a mile long losing streak! The only reason the streets of Boston were cleared of snow so fast last winter, was so we could still have to parade for The Pats after the Superbowl! So yes, people of New York and beyond, continue to yell 'cheaters' at us. We're not listening.
The bottom line is, regardless where you are from in Mass (even if it is Western Mass), we're all very proud to call the state our home, and nothing you say could ever convince us otherwise.
