Ghosting: The Ultimate Magic Trick (But Not the Fun Kind)

Ah, ghosting—the modern dating phenomenon where your potential future partner transforms into a ghost faster than you can say, “What did I do?” Yep, I’ve been there. So, pull up a chair and grab some popcorn because this story’s got all the drama of a soap opera minus the catchy theme song.

Chapter 1: Mr. Stable (Or So I Thought)

So, there I was, dating a seemingly great guy. He was talking about our future one minute, and the next, poof—he vanished like a magician’s assistant. No phone calls, no texts, not even a lousy “Hey, I’m out.” Nothing. I was left in relationship limbo, frantically refreshing my phone like it was going to produce him out of thin air.

Naturally, I spiraled into “What did I do wrong?” mode, trying to decode this vanishing act like it was some unsolvable mystery. I hung around mutual friends (awkwardly, might I add), hoping for some explanation. But nope, the guy was more elusive than a winning lottery ticket. Eventually, months later, I bumped into him at a bar (because of course that’s how life works). And what did I do? I cried. Yep, full-on waterworks. Not because I missed him, but because it’s just exhausting! Like, bro, just tell me you’re done and save me the therapy bills.

Interlude: My Bar Encounter

Here’s the thing—I wasn’t asking for much. I didn’t need a grand breakup speech with fireworks and a string quartet. All I wanted was a little closure. You know, the basic human decency of being told, “Hey, it’s not working.” But alas, he opted for the Houdini act instead.

Chapter 2: The Sequel... Same Story

Now, fast forward. I’m in a better place, dating a new guy (yay me!), and after a few dates, I decide to tell him my one and only relationship rule: "If you ever feel like this isn’t working, please, for the love of all things decent, just tell me. Don’t ghost me."

Guess what he did? Yep, you nailed it. He ghosted me too. I'm thinking, I should probably start charging for my ghostbusting services.

Interlude: The Disclaimer (Maybe It’s Me?)

At this point, I’m wondering if I have a secret talent for making men run for the hills. Am I unknowingly starring in some dating horror movie where I’m the plot twist? Maybe there’s something about me that sends men fleeing like they’ve seen a ghost. But here’s the thing—even if I’m the plot twist, I still deserve an explanation! I mean, come on—have the decency to at least tell me why you’re running.

Chapter 3: Ghosting is Emotional Abuse (Yes, I Said It)

It’s emotional abuse. I said it. It’s like taking the coward's way out, slamming the door shut, and then hiding behind it so you don’t have to deal with the fallout. And for what? To avoid an uncomfortable conversation? Spoiler alert: being left in the dark is a hundred times worse than a “Hey, this isn’t working anymore” text.

We’ve got to do better, people. Don’t sneak out of someone’s life like you’re on a secret spy mission. Have the guts to communicate, even if it’s hard. We’re all dealing with our own stuff—why add unnecessary confusion and hurt to the pile? It’s not that hard—say goodbye, wish them well, and walk out like a functioning adult.

Interlude: We Can All Do Better

Look, I’m not saying anyone’s responsible for someone else’s mental health, but here’s a wild idea: Treat people like actual humans. If you’re ready to move on, at least have a mature conversation before pulling a disappearing act.

Why add to someone’s emotional baggage when you could just… not?

So, let’s make a deal: Next time you’re ready to bail, put on your big-person pants, say your piece, and let the other person know. No more ghosting. It’s the least we can do as decent humans in the 21st century, right?