Get off of my side.
Look, neighbor we've got some things in common, you and I. We both like to shoot. We appreciate nice guns. Heck, we even have a certain appreciation for not-so-nice guns. We both also hold our current administration with some contempt. So, common ground, I guess?
But you see, my contempt for our sitting President isn't based upon the color of his skin. It's not completely based upon his origin*. It's not based upon his religion or lack of it**.
As a matter of fact, it is actually his pandering to race which is one of the reasons that I'm annoyed by our sitting President.
I don't like racism. I find myself irritated by racists. But I try, for the most part, to live and let live.
But you know what really pushes my button?
Imply that I'm a racist.
And here's the thing: when you and I, recent acquaintances, are having conversation between almost-strangers, and you casually drop the N-word and other racial remarks about our sitting President-- you're making some assumptions about me. You're assuming that I'm complicit with your speech, and your way of thinking. You're assuming that I'm not offended, and will continue this conversation. By implication, you are saying that you believe that I'm like you. A racist.
I'm not. And while I may appreciate the courtesies that you may have shown me and mine, I'll be taking my leave. Because today I can't stand talking to you, and your racist friends.
_____________________________
*Hawaii? No. Kenya? I'm not a birther. Politically, he's from Chicago. There's a lot of righteous disdain to be held for Chicago's political system.
** Although his attendance to Rev. Jeremiah Wright's church, and support (until called on the issue) of a man who is patently racist, bothers me.
Labels: Gripes, Politics, race, The people you meet sometimes

