Story by LeRon L. Barton
I found this article this morning and thought it was well worth sharing. It is most thought provoking and speaks to the ongoing effort to rid our nation of Racism. I have heard many people say “Why can’t we forget color” or “Why can’t we all get along.” I think a deeper understanding of Racism in the USA brings more depth to such questions. We have examples of race hatred and hatred for others all over the world that has gone on for centuries.
Sometimes this hatred is based on race and sometimes on religion, gender or ideology. At the core of most hatred is a lack of understanding. A lack of compassion for those with different skins or thoughts. A feeling that our IDEAS and our SKIN COLOR makes us better than others. I think this article helps us all think about racism more deeply and what we can each do in our lives to eradicate this curse from humanity.
I Lost White Friends When I Finally Spoke Out Story by LeRon L. Barton
The original article by Mr. Baron is followed by hundreds of comments. Many agree with Mr. Barton and many disagree. I have selected two comments that represent both sides of the disagreement. What do you think?
From reading this article, I truly believe that the author reached a turning point in his life. He finally realized who his real friends were. If individuals of different backgrounds loved, respected, and valued you as an individual, they would try to understand life from your perspective. In a world where a majority of the population despises Black people, it is important to instill Black pride in Black people. At times I feel like the world is governed by policies and beliefs that are designed to keep certain individuals oppressed. Sometimes it feels like when your views don’t match the majority, you are considered a “danger” or “militant”. It’s unfortunate. #TMC
“I believe that Black people live in a country that constantly tries to strangle every bit of self-respect, pride, individuality, love, and life out of them. It is an everyday challenge for us to maintain our mental health.” Patently false. Too many Black people have made it in all walks of life, professional and blue collar. We twice elected a Black president. Years of affirmative action and DEI have made it easier to succeed. This article, while well intended, is just another in a long line of articles showing an increasing racism villainizing white people.
Doing my morning run today, this is what I see in a neighbors yard. He lives four houses down from me. Do you suppose he served in the Civil War? His next door neighbor is a good friend of mine who is African American. I have often asked my friend how he deals with this. How do you think any Black person in this country deals with this? How would you deal with this?
Aging Capriciously 