My personal experience…
Recently, I went to the post office to send my
husband a box of goodies since he is deployed. As I was leaving out of the
building, I saw an older, white lady struggling with her packages as she was
trying to enter the building. She dropped some of her mail and being the
helpful person that I am, I offered her help. Instead of accepting my offer to
help her, she yelled at me saying, “No! I don’t need help from a n….. or anyone
else like you!” As the target of microaggression, I was shocked because it is
2013 and there are still ignorant, racist people in this world. I did not let
it bother me though. In return, I said to her, “Have a blessed day.” There were
other people around and they looked at the woman in disbelief and shook their
heads in disappointment. When she said “or anyone else like me” I understood
that she meant other people of color. As I reflect on this
situation/experience, I am truly saddened because there are people who do not
know/ don’t care about the impact they may have on another person’s life.
Colleagues: What would you have done in this situation?
Hi Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI feel your pain and can only say I thank God for Jesus.This week's video has definitely made me more aware of the things I say and do and how they could affect the feelings of others. Some people do not realize how inappropriate their comments are because it is normal to marginalize other people for certain defining characteristics. It is something they may be willing to change if they only understood how hurtful their words can be.
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI am sorry that you had this experience. I find it very surprising that there are still people who are as close-minded as this lady. I think you handled the situation with grace, I don't think I would have done anything differently. The resources this week have shown me how important it is to think before we speak to others. I have lived my life with the philosophy of treating others as I wish to be treated. I only wish everyone thought this way.
I'm sure your husband will enjoy and appreciate your care package!
Hi Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI am hurt for you. I can not imagine being in a situation like that. You did a great job with keeping you composure. It is sad though that we live in a time where people still act and feel this way towards others. I personally would have done the same thing. Blessed her and walked away.
Thank you all!
ReplyDeleteAshley, you handled this situation very well. I am really not surprised at this type of behavior. I have had a couple situations of blatant racism; however, I cannot make someone respect the differences between us. I just keep it moving and try to remember to pray for them.
ReplyDeleteHi Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI am appalled. I am truly sorry for this experience. You handled it well and I would have done the same thing and picked up her dropped mail and handed it to her and probably opened her door for her. I think some people are truly ignorant and knows no other way to handle their own shortcomings. Poor woman, she is missing so much in her life for being so close minded and hurtful. I will pray for her that she find peace within herself.
Great Post Ashley, I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to reading more from you. I believe that we all must be aware of Microagression and how it affects others.
ReplyDelete