Hate 'Em All
a short essay on bigotry24 total reviews
Comment from Judy Couch
This is very good and sums up the problem well. I appreciate the fact that you include yourself among those who are prejudiced. We all should accept responsibility. One thing to look at: "Neither parent disguised their prejudice" Since "neither parent" is singular, the pronoun "their" should be "his/her" to express singularity.
reply by the author on 22-Feb-2015
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This is very good and sums up the problem well. I appreciate the fact that you include yourself among those who are prejudiced. We all should accept responsibility. One thing to look at: "Neither parent disguised their prejudice" Since "neither parent" is singular, the pronoun "their" should be "his/her" to express singularity.
Comment Written 22-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 22-Feb-2015
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Good point. Thanks for the catch.
Comment from mrsmajor
Well you have now met a person that does no have a shred of bigotry...none what so ever...I find that too inclusive a statement...I dislike some people's actions, individuals, but not one race or nationality...I say that because I have had friends I went to school with, met in social setting, and then became friends with, and have worked with many different kinds of people in my lifetime...as I said I dislike some of their actions, some as individuals, but to say I have bigotry against any group, no I do not,,,now you can believe that or not, if you wish...because there are people, as you say, that do show bigotry against some groups of people.
I guess as a Black woman, I know the feeling, and have decided, those that I do not like, as individuals, I will stay away from, but there is no way, I will show bigotry toward any one...
Now I'm sure, some might say how can you say that are you in favor of what is going on in this world and I will repeat, I have no bigotry against any group, however, I do detest the actions of some people, their attitudes, selfishness, horrific, and violent behavior...
Of course I am speaking about those that are killing, beheading people, slaughtering men women and children, in the Middle East, and yes in Africa...but I know people are Muslim, Jewish, Mexican, that are not of that mindset...so those are the ones, I have no bigotry for...and that's the way I live my life...perfect I will never be, but all are welcome at my table, except those people that behave as I mentioned...They are angels of satan...
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2015
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Well you have now met a person that does no have a shred of bigotry...none what so ever...I find that too inclusive a statement...I dislike some people's actions, individuals, but not one race or nationality...I say that because I have had friends I went to school with, met in social setting, and then became friends with, and have worked with many different kinds of people in my lifetime...as I said I dislike some of their actions, some as individuals, but to say I have bigotry against any group, no I do not,,,now you can believe that or not, if you wish...because there are people, as you say, that do show bigotry against some groups of people.
I guess as a Black woman, I know the feeling, and have decided, those that I do not like, as individuals, I will stay away from, but there is no way, I will show bigotry toward any one...
Now I'm sure, some might say how can you say that are you in favor of what is going on in this world and I will repeat, I have no bigotry against any group, however, I do detest the actions of some people, their attitudes, selfishness, horrific, and violent behavior...
Of course I am speaking about those that are killing, beheading people, slaughtering men women and children, in the Middle East, and yes in Africa...but I know people are Muslim, Jewish, Mexican, that are not of that mindset...so those are the ones, I have no bigotry for...and that's the way I live my life...perfect I will never be, but all are welcome at my table, except those people that behave as I mentioned...They are angels of satan...
Comment Written 20-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2015
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But you said something very important--you don't SHOW any bigotry towards any generalized group. Nor do I. Even more importantly, I open my heart and mind to anyone and everyone as an individual, as you do, accepting them at face value. If I find them repulsive, crude, ignorant or arrogant, I thing THE INDIVIDUAL is the jerk, not the race or religious beliefs they hold.
Internally, like I mentioned the Korean gangs that are showing up everywhere, I have a built in alarm system that warns me about their GROUP DISPOSITION to kill as an initiation process. Now, in general, I have nothing against individual Koreans, but when I talk about MY bigotry, it is an admission that I have preconceived notions. I certainly have never treated anyone badly based on any criteria, and you know, I'm even polite to the Jehovah Witnesses that won't stop coming to my door no matter how many times I tell the same group thanks, but no thanks. I haven't sworn once at them or used some of my colourful profanity. Maybe my bigotry even shows up as OVER-COMPENSATION. Know what I mean?
Anyhow, thanks for the visit and sharing your thoughts and especially for the stellar review.
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Of course we are going to come across people we may seriously disagree with, but across the street we may have a dear friend of the same nationality, race or whatever...no way can I show group bigotry to an specific group...I know too many good people...I understand your response and appreciate your thoughts...
No not overcompensation, simply decency...
The piece was certainly worth the stars, and your response another 6...
Hugs
Comment from Donya Quijote
I think you have covered all the bases in this essay on bigotry. Fear is most certainly the foundation of all our prejudices and other related maladies. We are definitely more comfortable with that with which we are more familiar and with those that resemble ourselves. Personally, I like things that are different. I suppose that is one reason I am so much into foreign languages. The world is less strange to me in many respects. However, like you, I have to admit that only seeing the eyes of someone does make me nervous. I find myself wondering what is hidden under all that material and does this person want to hurt me. I suppose that that is result of current cultural conditioning. I wonder the same thing about the dude in leather, chains, tattoos, and all manner of piercings.
Good write. Provokes much thought. Good luck in the contest...
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2015
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I think you have covered all the bases in this essay on bigotry. Fear is most certainly the foundation of all our prejudices and other related maladies. We are definitely more comfortable with that with which we are more familiar and with those that resemble ourselves. Personally, I like things that are different. I suppose that is one reason I am so much into foreign languages. The world is less strange to me in many respects. However, like you, I have to admit that only seeing the eyes of someone does make me nervous. I find myself wondering what is hidden under all that material and does this person want to hurt me. I suppose that that is result of current cultural conditioning. I wonder the same thing about the dude in leather, chains, tattoos, and all manner of piercings.
Good write. Provokes much thought. Good luck in the contest...
Comment Written 20-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 20-Feb-2015
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In general, I think most rational people approach each person as an individual with an open heart and mind, regardless of differences, but then something triggers a fear and that comes from prejudice.
Comment from Edward A. Hara
Another fine gem of a story. Loved the middle part where you and Joe connive to drive your mother wild. As I said before, the only thing you have from me is praise. There is simply no technical error in your writing or your ability to elict thoughtful laughter from people.
reply by the author on 19-Feb-2015
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Another fine gem of a story. Loved the middle part where you and Joe connive to drive your mother wild. As I said before, the only thing you have from me is praise. There is simply no technical error in your writing or your ability to elict thoughtful laughter from people.
Comment Written 19-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 19-Feb-2015
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I am extremely honoured by both you kind words and the gift of the six-star review. Thank you very much.
Comment from Jumbo J
Hey Ingrid,
very interesting essay for this contest... bigotry the intolerance-ignorance that breeds the continuous chain of hate... do you think children just wake up one morning and hate a certain race of people? No, I know you don't... and that's why this post is such a brilliant write... you swerved in and out of the topic with a fluent grace.
I suppose your first line set this up so powerfully for me... I have yet to meet a single human being who does not harbour at least a shed of bigotry, including me.
Once I shook off my inherited bigotry the only demographic I direct my distaste at are haters, predators, sociopaths... you get my direction?
But as I have said, you have again not disappointed... this is a flowing an engaging piece, that really makes you think about the issue... me, I don't like pointing my finger with a broad-stroke and tainting a 'whole' with the crimes of a minority... I will never allow my mind to be that closed-in.
Don't get me wrong, I know how hard it must be for people such as your mother who were brutally abused and treated less than any human being should be... and for me to feel that way, I first would have to walk in their shoes... maybe then I might not be so willing to take the high-road with my nativity?
All the very best in this contest... always a true pleasure to read your well balanced wordsmithry in full-flight.
With our thoughts we create,
a wedge,
James vx's.
******Stars!!!!!!
reply by the author on 18-Feb-2015
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Hey Ingrid,
very interesting essay for this contest... bigotry the intolerance-ignorance that breeds the continuous chain of hate... do you think children just wake up one morning and hate a certain race of people? No, I know you don't... and that's why this post is such a brilliant write... you swerved in and out of the topic with a fluent grace.
I suppose your first line set this up so powerfully for me... I have yet to meet a single human being who does not harbour at least a shed of bigotry, including me.
Once I shook off my inherited bigotry the only demographic I direct my distaste at are haters, predators, sociopaths... you get my direction?
But as I have said, you have again not disappointed... this is a flowing an engaging piece, that really makes you think about the issue... me, I don't like pointing my finger with a broad-stroke and tainting a 'whole' with the crimes of a minority... I will never allow my mind to be that closed-in.
Don't get me wrong, I know how hard it must be for people such as your mother who were brutally abused and treated less than any human being should be... and for me to feel that way, I first would have to walk in their shoes... maybe then I might not be so willing to take the high-road with my nativity?
All the very best in this contest... always a true pleasure to read your well balanced wordsmithry in full-flight.
With our thoughts we create,
a wedge,
James vx's.
******Stars!!!!!!
Comment Written 18-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 18-Feb-2015
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I did not want to dilute the message with a series of 'buts' or' howevers' trying to make me 'look' better. The truth is that while we harbour general caution and some inherited or learned attitudes, I'd like to feel that most people like you, do not paint an individual with a broad stroke. My attitude is always an open heart and mind to all people, but I still admit to wariness with some groups. Hugs, ingrid
Comment from Dean Kuch
Yeah, I don't have much empathy or love for many of the towel-heads in ISIS, Al Qaeda, Hamas, or any number of Islamic extremest organizations you'd care to mention, Ingrid. Not an ounce, not even a shred. In my estimation, we should locate all of their training facilities and make parking lots out of the countries which permit them to be there. Good thing I'll never become President, huh?
As for blacks, Hispanics and Muslims in general, I have good friends that are a little of each and all of some. But none of them are Jihadists or Muslim extremists, at least not to my knowledge. I could care less what their religious convictions are, just as long as they don't try to kill me or anyone in my family, or the fellow citizenry of my country because of them.
So, yeah, I am very, extremely, horribly -- even terribly -- racist towards Muslim extremists. I say kill 'em all and let God (or Allah) sort 'em out. Now, that's justice in my book!
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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Yeah, I don't have much empathy or love for many of the towel-heads in ISIS, Al Qaeda, Hamas, or any number of Islamic extremest organizations you'd care to mention, Ingrid. Not an ounce, not even a shred. In my estimation, we should locate all of their training facilities and make parking lots out of the countries which permit them to be there. Good thing I'll never become President, huh?
As for blacks, Hispanics and Muslims in general, I have good friends that are a little of each and all of some. But none of them are Jihadists or Muslim extremists, at least not to my knowledge. I could care less what their religious convictions are, just as long as they don't try to kill me or anyone in my family, or the fellow citizenry of my country because of them.
So, yeah, I am very, extremely, horribly -- even terribly -- racist towards Muslim extremists. I say kill 'em all and let God (or Allah) sort 'em out. Now, that's justice in my book!
Comment Written 17-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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100% agreement. To this day, I don't understand with all the Intel why the world can't find them and send in a mercenary swat team to eliminate the bastards. Guess I should get off the fence on this issue. Thanks.
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We easily could. It's just that the powers that be now do not want to.
You're very welcome.
Comment from GWHARGIS
I love that you weren't trying to cover the page with understanding and flowers. When my children tell me I am a racists, I calmly explain that I do lump people to gether, but I give everyone I meet a fair chance. I will open my arms and heart to all. But like you I can't tolerate stupidity. I don't have much sympathy to drug addicts. I work in a pharmacy. I see them daily come in to get their oxycodone and percoset while lying about everything. Paying with change or even begging, while they have the new Iphone in their clutches. Begging for a certain brand of oxy because it has more street value. There you have it, my worst offender. I have a list that goes on and on but I'll save it for later. Loved the pivotal role your mother had in this. Great piece. Good luck in the contest. Gretchen
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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I love that you weren't trying to cover the page with understanding and flowers. When my children tell me I am a racists, I calmly explain that I do lump people to gether, but I give everyone I meet a fair chance. I will open my arms and heart to all. But like you I can't tolerate stupidity. I don't have much sympathy to drug addicts. I work in a pharmacy. I see them daily come in to get their oxycodone and percoset while lying about everything. Paying with change or even begging, while they have the new Iphone in their clutches. Begging for a certain brand of oxy because it has more street value. There you have it, my worst offender. I have a list that goes on and on but I'll save it for later. Loved the pivotal role your mother had in this. Great piece. Good luck in the contest. Gretchen
Comment Written 17-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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Thanks. I think above all genres, I prefer essay writing that gives me a chance to et it rip.
Comment from N.K. Wagner
I could write an entire essay on the psychology of bigotry, but in a nutshell it's all about fear - survival instinct. The aggression of derogatory labels is a defensive mechanism and one that's programmed to warn others of our type against "them". "Them" might be defined by unpleasant neighbors or by a pride of lions. Our psyches don't differentiate. We only hate what we fear. The solution is one-to-one education and selective caution. Well done, Ingrid! :) Nancy
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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I could write an entire essay on the psychology of bigotry, but in a nutshell it's all about fear - survival instinct. The aggression of derogatory labels is a defensive mechanism and one that's programmed to warn others of our type against "them". "Them" might be defined by unpleasant neighbors or by a pride of lions. Our psyches don't differentiate. We only hate what we fear. The solution is one-to-one education and selective caution. Well done, Ingrid! :) Nancy
Comment Written 17-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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Well, as you know, these essay snapshots are my favourite ay of letting things rip. Thanks.
Comment from Dom G Robles
I like this essay. There are expressions that I really admire, which in a deeper sense make me think further as to their meaning. For instance the hating of the blacks and the Jews which were apparently open was explained pretty well. It was a kind of life in a new world, Canada, where the center of the story or the essay began. The experience the writer had as a child blended into the cultural settings of a mother's world different from a country that the family chose to immigrate was explained in a manner that was (to me) in a different style. The expression with figures of speech that I found a little bit to decipher was apparent from beginning to end. For instance, the statement, "As I took stock of all the bigotry I've both harboured and been victim to the list is staggering."
It took me quite awhile to figure out what it is actually saying...
Another one. "It is only when we protect our right to ignore the abuse of individuals not afforded the luxury of cultural interaction that I begin to feel the hackles on my neck rise."
These and many more make me appreciate the commentary and philosophy of the writer. Hence the six stars. Thanks for sharing Ingrid.
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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I like this essay. There are expressions that I really admire, which in a deeper sense make me think further as to their meaning. For instance the hating of the blacks and the Jews which were apparently open was explained pretty well. It was a kind of life in a new world, Canada, where the center of the story or the essay began. The experience the writer had as a child blended into the cultural settings of a mother's world different from a country that the family chose to immigrate was explained in a manner that was (to me) in a different style. The expression with figures of speech that I found a little bit to decipher was apparent from beginning to end. For instance, the statement, "As I took stock of all the bigotry I've both harboured and been victim to the list is staggering."
It took me quite awhile to figure out what it is actually saying...
Another one. "It is only when we protect our right to ignore the abuse of individuals not afforded the luxury of cultural interaction that I begin to feel the hackles on my neck rise."
These and many more make me appreciate the commentary and philosophy of the writer. Hence the six stars. Thanks for sharing Ingrid.
Comment Written 17-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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I guess in simpler terms, the first statement means...when I took the time to pay attention and think about it, I've been the victim of prejudice many, many times and I must admit that I too have held negative feelings towards certain groups.
The second...Too many people will see others being abused because of race or gender and we will ignore it--perhaps say we don't want to get involved (the luxury.)This makes me angry, just like the Arabic women who are forced to wear burkas and are not PERMITTED to drive.
Thanks for the stars. Guess what...it was thirty degrees below zero in my neck of the woods.
Comment from mfowler
This is a very good essay on this subject, not only because you canvassed a wide range of the bigotry examples that you've encountered via, family, work and circumstance, but also because you're willing to be honest about your own shortcomings. I'm with you all the way when you say everyone has some level of bigotry. Even the Christian extolling love of mankind is likely to filter a whole range of other Christians because of perceived weaknesses in doctrine. Your example of 9/11 and its attendant fear mongering is a perfect example of how bigotry grows; grows in people who might otherwise see themselves as tolerant. I think we all need to face our prejudices and find a way to deal with them through reflection, research, compassion..whatever lessens the potential evil in the individual. Collective community bigotry is a harder mile to walk, but some great people have done it throughout history. This problem will continue to roll on through human history as new generations find out about difference and revert to the tribal instinct of choosing sides.
Loved your work, which is both eloquently expressed and intelligently formed.
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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This is a very good essay on this subject, not only because you canvassed a wide range of the bigotry examples that you've encountered via, family, work and circumstance, but also because you're willing to be honest about your own shortcomings. I'm with you all the way when you say everyone has some level of bigotry. Even the Christian extolling love of mankind is likely to filter a whole range of other Christians because of perceived weaknesses in doctrine. Your example of 9/11 and its attendant fear mongering is a perfect example of how bigotry grows; grows in people who might otherwise see themselves as tolerant. I think we all need to face our prejudices and find a way to deal with them through reflection, research, compassion..whatever lessens the potential evil in the individual. Collective community bigotry is a harder mile to walk, but some great people have done it throughout history. This problem will continue to roll on through human history as new generations find out about difference and revert to the tribal instinct of choosing sides.
Loved your work, which is both eloquently expressed and intelligently formed.
Comment Written 17-Feb-2015
reply by the author on 17-Feb-2015
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My son was raised in a community that had so many cultures and colours, he truly is colour blind. He would never dream of describing a person by mentioning his skin colour. There's hope, but hatred is being fertilized by the anonymous nature of the computer. Some of the cruelest things I've ever heard came through the screen. Hate is hate and we have a very long road ahead. Thanks for the read and feedback.