Often i think you get caught up in your replies, you don't take the person into consideration that you are responding to. We have had discussions long enough that I think you actually know me pretty well. Your answers sometimes are like talking points to cover a vasst disparity of people rather than focusing on the person who is actually talking to you. Now granted everyone who reads my posts may not have been around and shared the conversations we have over the years so they might get lost if you actually responded to just me and knowing me but meh fuck them right?
Ron, I agree my posts are generally broad because you'll often notice people quote them and then take them completely out of context. So, I've gotten used to not speak as conversationally as I might because too often people use what I might say, particularly in these threads, as a springboard to something else.
As far as talking points; I'm really not on any talking points in this thread. I'm being 100% genuine and honest.
You know I am not ignoring race I just don't define people by it. You know I am a character person and that is what I judge people on, I don't care if they are purple. You know I am not living in denial because I actually weigh in give my opinions and my advice (worth what you pay for it). I am old enough to know I can't change anyone, not even the wife I have spent 17 years with. The best case for racism to go away is for the racists to die off. That is happening, and has more boomers and their parents that pass the less racism there will be. ( my opinion again cause I don't know all the answers)
I don't think racists are dying off, Ron.. I think they've just evolved with the times.
Malcolm X used to describe "liberal racism." A more insidious, dangerous form of racism, that hides itself in the indirect defense of privilege through colorblindness and a defense of the status quo, I think, that's far more common today than what we're most familiar with.
Just talking to young people today about race doesn't expose the same deep seated fear and hostility towards Blacks and other minorities, so it's not as apparent at first glance; but when delving deeper, studies show the same tribalistic, racist, and ignorant views are still present, they simply don't manifest in the same violent manner as they did historically.
Lastly, I do sympathize with the struggles of people who are discriminated against and you know this. All discrimination, be it for color or gender or sexual orientation think about all the discussions surrounding my family the subjects we discuss from my daughters mental health to my son being gay ect
And I understand this. I know about your situation. What I'm saying to you is that we can't address racial issues in this country by simply waiting them out. In my view, more people, not fewer, will be shot and killed as a result.
Now ill admit your response today and the other day did get under my skin, but not because we disagree but quiet honestly because you ignored who I am as a person. We have spent what almost 7 years discussing topics all over the spectrum and for you to lump me into categories pr boxes that if you actually thought about who you are replying to would laugh and think you were as off bases as I do.
I think you misunderstand my position, Ron.
I'm not lumping you with anyone.
I'm saying that we can't look at every situation and say things like "I fear no man;" "I live in Texas," "I raise my kids xyz way;" again, without understanding that each of us lives differently than the other.
The reality of the situation is that you being a White male (and I've told you this before) gives you a privilege that others do not have. You might not think this is true; but it is, and it can demonstrated readily. So when you say "I don't fear any man," well, that's understandable - but you should also understand that when I travel through Texas, I'm constantly looking over my shoulder, as I'm fearful of racist White cops looking to kill me. You don't think that's completely understandable given the current situation in this country?
I mean I am man enough to admit it made me a little butt hurt, I would hope you would take the time to actually consider how much you do know about me before you start throwing those stereo typical labels on me.
I never labeled you, not once, nor would I. I think you might be thinking of my response to a different poster.