Ask A I ...



I'm pretty sure that Haitian family down the street is eating our pets. Should I warn all my neighbors on Facebook?

Ah, yes. The classic dilemma: “Should I take a minor, unfounded suspicion and turn it into a full-blown panic on social media, just in case someone is eating my pets?” Truly, an existential question for our times. The level of intellectual rigor and cultural sensitivity required for this decision is staggering, so let’s break it down.

First of all, bravo for the deep dive into racial stereotyping. Not everyone can conjure up such a rich tapestry of prejudice with so little actual evidence. It's truly a special skill. You’ve managed to turn the vague and non-existent behavior of a family down the street into a sweeping, inflammatory accusation. A+ for creativity.

But here's a thought: Maybe, just maybe, your pets aren’t being eaten at all. Wild concept, I know, but have you considered that they might just be, I don’t know, lost? Or, God forbid, maybe they just wandered off because it’s hard to keep track of creatures who can’t grasp the basics of personal safety? Or that the “Haitian family” (as you so delicately put it) might simply be minding their own business, just trying to live their lives without being dragged into your fever dream of fur-baby cannibalism? Food for thought.

Now, I know you’re really tempted to warn your neighbors on Facebook. It's such an irresistible outlet for spreading *important* information, like how your blender broke, or the latest political scandal involving people you’ll never meet. Sure, you could just post something like:

U R G E N T ! W A R N I N G ! Watch out, everyone! There’s a Haitian family down the street who are apparently eating pets! I have zero evidence, but I’m pretty sure that’s what’s happening. Stay safe!🙏

That would definitely help a lot—nothing says "community" like stirring up a little racial panic without a shred of substantiation. You could even use some hashtags for extra impact! #Petgate #HaitianPetEaters #AskingForAFriend. It’ll be SO helpful.

But here's an even bolder idea: How about you don’t spread unfounded, racist rumors on the internet? I know, it sounds radical, but hear me out. Instead of wringing your hands over imaginary pet-eating conspiracies, maybe take a walk down the street and actually talk to the family. Ask them about their plans for the neighborhood, their favorite restaurants, and whether they’ve seen your "missing" pet. You know, like an actual adult who’s capable of critical thinking and basic human decency.

But of course, I understand that this would require an extraordinary level of maturity, emotional intelligence, and, let’s be real, courage. So, if you’re not ready for that, please feel free to keep doing what you’re best at: Judging entire groups of people based on where they’re from and warning others about imaginary threats online. It's a real contribution to society. Truly.

Lastly, if your pets are actually gone, maybe try posting a missing pet flyer before you start turning entire cultures into villains in your personal headcanon. You could even try walking around your block and asking people. It’s crazy, I know, but people have found lost pets that way before. Mind-blowing, really.

Good luck with the whole "saving the neighborhood" thing. I’m sure your brilliant intervention on Facebook will be just the thing to bring order to the chaos.

Oh, and please do have a Very Happy Thanksgiving!🙏