"What are you?" These three words could mean anything to most people, like what zodiac sign you are, what group number you were put in, or what Harry Potter house the Pottermore quiz sorted you into (I'm a Ravenclaw, thanks for asking.) But when these words are thrown my way, it is always when someone is questioning me about my race. These three words are so inwardly cringing to me that I automatically lose interest in the rest of the conversation. My mood changes from whatever I was feeling before, too shocked, then offended and defensive; like isn't it obvious "what I am?"

But for all of the people who are absolutely DYING to know what I am, since my physical appearance is such an enigma to you, I'll let you know that I'm a proud black woman. It really frustrates me when I remember how many times I have been asked what my race was. It is like people are confused about what costume I dressed up as for a Halloween party. But then I remember, I don't actually look like the textbook definition of a "typical African-American."

I have lighter skin than what most people picture African-Americans with. My eyes are light brown when most of us have darker-colored eyes. My hair is more curly than it is kinky. After I remember what I look like, then I can understand the ignorance of why people ask me this, but that doesn't and shouldn't make me any less of a black person than my fellow brothers and sisters.

After going through this quick mini-argument in my head, I suppress the urge to roll my eyes and I tell this confused person my identity, but it doesn't just end there. It is usually followed the NERVE of asking me "Are you sure?" ......? Are you trying to tell me that I should consider asking my BLACK parents (who I'm a perfect blend of the two of them, btw) that they may have picked up a mixed baby at the hospital, or that my mother is lying about who my father is?

Because if you are, that's just plain rude, and I will call you what you are, which is ignorant!

Many people have it in their heads that all black people are supposed to look the same. We're all supposed to have the same color skin, same facial features, and same textured hair. This is obviously not the case. Black people, just like every other race, are born in all shapes, sizes, and colors.

Now I'm not saying that everyone has ill intentions when asking what race someone is. Some people may be genuinely interested in people's ancestry, but for the most part, it just sounds like you couldn't figure it out in your own head, so you thought it would be a good idea to ask. So instead of asking someone "what are you?" just don't ask at all because it's incredibly offensive and it really isn't any of your business.