Thank you so much for your wonderful reply, Mish. I was afraid that once again I might be misunderstood. I don't even like the term "gay tolerant". Because what is there to "tolerate". It is what it is. And like you say - you could substitute the word "redneck" or any other race, religion,social group - whatever. We can't belong to all of them. But we can "embrace" our differences - whatever they may be.
But it's "how we treat one another" that matters.
And as you say - she has a huge chip on her shoulder. And I honestly think it came from defending her beliefs - even if she should not have had to. But truth is - we all have stuff. We all have baggage. We just shouldn't wear it all the time.
I remember when I switched my kids to an African paediatrician. It was when Ryan was 4 years old and in a coma. And I remember thinking it would be good that my children would have a doctor, someone they could trust and learn to love (they did) of a different race. Like me - they're colour blind to race.
I took great offense to the implication that I might be homophobic. Or blame her behaviour on her sexual orientation. Because it means a lot to me NOT to be that way.
I'm in Florida. There is quite a diversity here but in a much different way than at home. But it's all good.
I also despise the term "redneck" unless it is used by a southerner who is laughing at themself. Just as I am a Canadian. I say "EH" a lot and watch hockey and often wear a heavy fleece even in summer. I put vinegar on my french fries and say ZED instead of ZEE. I also drink pop and Red Rose tea. And I laugh at myself - because sometimes Canadians are "just funny".
