A while back, I posted on my blog and on an un-named political blog that I had no black friends. In response to my post, I was picked apart, insulted and ridiculed for my honesty. It was right there and then that I realized that solving racism is an individual issue. It was my issue and I had to own it. Each and every single person who tried to discourage me with their mockery, made me more determined to do everything and anything I could to break the cultural and social barriers that exist in my life. Mind you in my case, it’s not entirely black white rich poor issue; any difference from middle class white will qualify. Since the time of that post, I have made changes in my behavior. I have befriended a few African American people, and Native American Indian, and a Saudi Arabian woman.
We continued talking for the next twenty minutes, all the while, the others remained unusually silent. I could feel their intent stares on my back; they were listening to every single word. I learned about her family and how they share clothes and hand-me-downs, and how her sister lives in
As part of my daily life, I am consciously aware and always looking for more “break the barrier” opportunities. They are everywhere, I just need to recognize the opportunity and follow through with effort. Sometimes all it takes is a smile.
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