I was just at Wegmans getting salad fixings for dinner. It's a beautiful sunny 84°F. I was dressed as I often am for these warm days; a button front camp shirt and fitted flat front shorts.
As I reached for a cart, I noticed two very rough looking women in their mid-late twenties. I had never seen them before. Their demeanor, unkempt hair and clothing were odd for this Wegmans location. People don't go to Wegmans looking like crap regardless of socio-economic status, and they looked really bad.
Our eyes met for a split second. The taller and meaner of the two then declared while gesturing towards me "See that! I can't stand that! I hate fucking faggots! I'd slice that motherfucker up in a second."
I didn't respond. I just pretended that it didn't happen. I imagine that if I had said anything at all, I would have been physically attacked. They continued on their way mumbling hate. I entered the store and immediately found Hydroponic Boston Big lettuce.
There is a part of me that says "You don't know where those people came from, what their lives have been or are... They obviously are in pain, and it's not really about you." There is a greater part of me that says "To hell with that theoretical liberal Bullshit! I don't want anyone that filled with hate anywhere near me, or anyone that I care about." People so basic that they verbally fantasize about harm another person just because they are presented differently than themselves may not be worth anyone's time?
It is interesting that many who are liberal or conservative may have definite opinions here, but have never had experiences that I have too many to count. One side wants to save the A-social, and the other wants a gated community from them. The best response probably lies somewhere in the middle. Having experiences like these makes me both afraid and a little ashamed by my response. I really shouldn't be lead to either emotion shopping for dinner.
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