[OSM-newbies] newbies Digest, Vol 34, Issue 27

[James Ewen]

On Wed, Dec 30, 2009 at 5:38 PM, Dave F. <davefox at madasafish.com> wrote:

> Didn't the admittance that he drove a pickup give you a clue? :-)

Any generalization based on preconceived notions puts you in the same company...

I could make some comment about "What could you expect from a
loud-mouthed American", but that would lower me to the same level, and
I'm certainly above that. 8)

Our American friends fiercely defend their First Amendment Clause, the
right to free speech, even if what they have to say is rude,
obnoxious, boorish, prejudicial, or outright offensive.  It is a
fundamental freedom that they hold dear, and rightfully so.

However, one would hope that through education, and exposure to other
cultures and peoples, that we as humanity would learn tolerance and
acceptance. Hopefully the worldwide communication medium that the
internet provides us will help us all learn that tolerance and
acceptance.

It is difficult to be mad at a vague concept or unknown group, and
with the American people under attack, it is much easier to pick an
identifiable group as a target. Unfortunately the Muslim community got
picked as the scapegoat. It is difficult to pick a fight when  you
can't easily identify your opponent.

Perhaps this may prompt Robert to change his perception of the Muslim
community, and refocus his energies in a more positive manner.

Maybe a New Year's Resolution for all of us can be found here... I
resolve to be more tolerant of other people's race, religion, sexual
persuasion, or any other trait they may have, and learn to accept
others for who they are as I would wish that they do for me.

James
VE6SRV