Shut Your Trap: A Masterclass in Realizing You Don’t Know Anything
The scene unfolds on a bustling city street, where Kadija is on her way to a meeting, minding her own business. The air hums with the usual sounds of urban life — cars honking, vendors calling out, and footsteps tapping against the pavement. Suddenly, an acquaintance spots her and eagerly approaches, carrying the unmistakable energy of someone about to unleash their unsolicited opinions.
Acquaintance:
“Kadija! You know what’s wrong with this country? The politicians! If I were in charge, I’d — ”
Kadija (cutting them off with a raised hand):
“Whoa, stop right there. You’ve barely figured out your lunch break schedule, and you’re out here solving global politics? Please, do us both a favor — shut your trap.”
The acquaintance, momentarily stunned, stammers to recover.
Acquaintance:
“But I’m just saying, if I were president — ”
Kadija (leaning in with a calm but piercing gaze):
“‘If I were president’? Really? You’re not even a manager at your own job, and you think running an entire country is a weekend side hustle? Shut. Your. Trap.”
A passerby overhears the exchange and smirks, clearly enjoying the takedown. The acquaintance, now visibly flustered, tries one last attempt.
Acquaintance:
“But don’t you think it’s important to criticize when things aren’t right? Like, the government should be — ”
Kadija (interrupting again):
“Criticism without context is just noise. Do you know what goes into being a leader? The decisions, the weight, the consequences? No? Then sit down and figure out how to lead yourself first. The world doesn’t need more uninformed opinions, it needs solutions. Now, are you done, or should I book you a flight to Neverland where your fantasy presidency can finally take off?”
The acquaintance, now thoroughly chastised, mutters something unintelligible and scurries off. Kadija adjusts her bag and continues on her way, muttering to herself.
Kadija (to no one in particular):
“People need to understand: if you’re not doing the work, you don’t get to critique the work. Stay in your lane. It’s that simple.”
