I understand you. We’re in this together.

The other day I downed a cup of coffee in 10 seconds (a secret talent) and ran out the door for to start my 9-hour-class-day Tuesday. I get it. I looked like maybe I needed 5 more hours of sleep. Or ten.

I get to class when I’m met with the dreaded three-letter-word “You look tired.”

Now, I may have actually looked tired that afternoon. The night before I had watched the first Presidential Debate, which noticeably-took a lot out of me, and I spent the rest of the night studying Philosophy (watching Mr. Robot). Also I trialed a red lipstick that probably wasn’t too on par with my pale skin tone.

But I have noticed this is a “thing,” that happens to a lot of people-and there’s a unanimous consensus. Tired must equal “you look bad today.” Being tired is usually a sign you’re a functioning zombie-pale skin, dark circles and all.

I suppose an argument could be that it’s a conversation-starter. Possibly people just want to know about your circadian rhythm, or lack thereof. Maybe they do want to know whether you’re tired, and listen to your sad 3 am freak-out over your future and donut-splurge. But overall, it seems that it’s not exactly a compliment. Or at least that’s how most take it according to my quick Google search of blog threads and Yahoo Answers.

To the people who receive “you look tired,” I’m with you. Whether you’re dressed up, makeup-less, getting sandwiches at a deli, dancing at prom-this may sting a little.

I suppose my response would be to own the look, regardless of whether it’s an insult or conversation starter. Who knows: maybe you look so well rested every other day that today is an anomaly. At least I’d like to think so.