Charlene wrote, “well the big ol' redneck was in town, leaving his patriotism at the border apparently..
...and didn't sing his version of Sundown.
(even if it's on the 'next' album he could/should have done it!- hello!! you're in gordtown dude and just recorded a gordtune!! )
http://www.torontosun.com/entertainm.../15460216.html”
At first I ignored “it”. Then I tolerated it. But then I couldn’t tolerate it and realized that I (nor anyone else) should have to feel offended or have to be in the position to have to ignore, tolerate, respond or even feel they have to defend a person who uses “it”.
Sometimes “it” is overt, other times -subtle, either way...it shouldn’t be tolerated. Unfortunately addressing “it” in too nice of a manner, feeling that words must be chosen carefully..being gracious and even eloquent about it....regardless of making the point that “it” isn’t being tolerated...may still give the impression that it is tolerable, acceptable, justifiable, somehow right or even somewhat ok .
History tells us it’s best to be blunt, not so nice, etc., when we wish to speak out and let people know that we feel offended and don’t and shouldn’t have to tolerate “it” and don’t want to be in the position to have to ignore, tolerate, respond/address or even defend “it”.
Most public message boards/forums have rules of etiquette that let members and guests know that “it” is not going to be tolerated.
Nobody should be forced to have to go along with it. Be made to believe that they had a ‘misconception’ about it. Or even to be told, made to think or even be asked by the person who is using “it” in their comments/thoughts/opinions...that their comments/thoughts/opinions are as “valid” as others’ who are not using “it”. I will not validate “it”
“To follow foolish precedents, and wink
With both our eyes is easier than to think.”
- William Cowper
Whether it be via racial prejudice, intolerance of someone’s sexual orientation or another’s country of origin and culture (including music)...it shouldn’t have to be tolerated -even if it’s veiled in patriotism, nationalism or otherwise the love of one’s Country. Not on a public forum. If a person wishes to use “it” privately...that’s their business.