Neighbours are ticking me off, every day. There are two : one is named Katelyn, who seems to identify herself as my niece. The problem : Katelyn (spelled in variations) is the most common girls name – ever. So, many many katelyns are hearing me, getting angry with this neighbour. And the neighbour Katelyn doesn’t seem to want to leave this building. Among many things, she enjoys destroying other people’s faiths. We cry. She is having fun.
I’m actually waiting for an “Enough, Bob.” From Prince William and his wife, Kate. ( Bill & Kate caught in the crossfire across the pond. Yes, that absurd. )
Other neighbours are calling me a racist. Usually these neighbours are First Nations. It has destroyed my feelings toward a community that has brought me to tears, many times, through my empathy. I understand what the community is saying. I hear what is going on. I can watch what is going on. I can care about what is going on, Eskwe Elder. I understand.
I’ve always known about this song. I had just assumed that nobody cared or thought of it. It’s from the 80’s and a Canadian piece of work.
My dignity? Gone long time ago. It doesn’t feel good or help me, getting that angry at “supposed” family members. Some people are incapable of empathy? Fine. But, some people are incapable of appreciating the effect they have on other people.
My basic point is : How am I supposed to repair the damage I’ve done to people and communities that mean something deep to me? And they were people caught in the crossfire of my anger toward someone else.
Is racism, taking a stereotype and applying it to every and all members of a racial group?
Is it racism we protest in Canada? Or is it hatred? Because, I’m regarding myself right now. And truthfully Mom, your 12 year old daughter, is the best “older brother” that I’ve ever had. And when she says, “You’re scaring me, with the yelling and the things you’re saying?” I listen. She’s right. And she’s normal. And good. That’s what “right” is. Why maintain the “wrong?” And this morning, looking at myself, in my mental mirror…
