We Used to....Own Slaves. (1765 hits)
Category: GeneralRating: 1.67 on 42 reviews (Rate this item) (V)
Submitted by Mike00295 (View user info) at 2005-08-09 11:08:08 EDT
http://www.ubersite.com/m/72633
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Excuse me, "Black Guy On This Bus Who's Glaring At Me And Clearly Hates Me", but can I speak with you for a moment? I don't mean to bother you. It's just that we have a pretty long bus ride ahead of us, and rather than simply ignoring this very apparent rift between us I think that we should just tackle the problem head-on. So here goes.
Now, because I know for a fact that I have never met you, I think it's pretty safe to assume that I have never personally wronged you in any way. So I can only suppose that this animosity that you are projecting towards me comes from somewhere else. And after careful consideration, I believe I know what this is all about. Oh heck, I'm just going to say it......
I'm really sorry for the role that I played in slavery.
There, I said it. That feels better. I truly hope that this helps mend things between you and me. I don't know what the hell I was thinking when my ancestors enslaved your ancestors two hundred years ago. I was kind of in a weird place back then and I'll be the first to say that I was completely out of line.
And believe me, if I could go back, I would try a thousand times harder not to let it happen. But as they say, "hindsight is 20-20", and I can't undo what I've already done. I just hope that this sincere act of contrition eases the tension on this RTA Metro.
I know that things have been pretty awkward for us since the whole slavery thing went down. I've received your deserved cold stares when I see you at the convenience store. I've been frigidly acknowledged when we pass each other on the street, if I'm acknowledged at all. And I'm 99% sure that this all goes back to the slavery unpleasantness.
I would like to say a few things in my defense, if that's alright by you. First off, can I just assure you that I myself have never owned slaves? Not even one. I personally find the very concept abhorrent and would never engage in the practice. I also took several diversity classes and a Black History class in college and I make every effort to stay versed on most racial issues. But alas, I can tell by your continued angry stare that these are all moot points. I guess I've made my bed and now I have to lie in it.
Oh hey, can I just mention one more thing? I believe it should be noted that I worked for four years in the food service industry. And in my time as a server and bartender, I like to think that I did my part to make up for my past atrocities. You see, many of my fellow servers got upset when African-American patrons undertipped them considerably. But not me. I consider those lost wages to be my way of contributing towards reparations for my checkered past.
Once again, I can perceive by your unwavering scowl that I am not getting through to you here. Well, that's fine. I suppose that there are some transgressions that can never be forgiven. But at least I made the effort.
Well, "Black Guy On This Bus Who's Glaring At Me And Clearly Hates Me", this is my stop. I appreciate that you at least heard me out and I for one feel good about our little talk. I think that the healing begins right now. I'll probably see you tomorrow, unless my Saturn gets out of the shop.
- Now I've got this guy looking for me. Shit.
User Reviews
Submitted by newgreenyou (user info) at 2005-12-14 13:20:10 EST (#)
Ranking: 2
great!
Submitted by d_prime (user info) at 2005-08-14 00:11:34 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
http://www.ubersite.com/m/73148 <- Results are in, and the finals begin.
Submitted by indoninja (user info) at 2005-08-10 08:15:26 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by d_prime (user info) at 2005-08-09 23:00:36 (#)
Ranking: 2
http://www.ubersite.com/m/72812#1513785
"It's objectively wrong to think that any thing is objectively right or wrong." Great thinking there. You're giving Aristotle a run for his money.
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I doubt she got it.
Submitted by indoninja (user info) at 2005-08-10 08:01:41 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
"Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:10:55 (#)
Ranking: 0
indoninja: I never said that all black people hate white people. I just said I can see the point of view of the black people that do hate white people. For that matter, I can understand the point of view of a militant pro-lifer and a KKK sympathizer, too."
No you said if you were black you would proabably hate white people too, insinuating that all black people hate white people, and it is an acceptable behavior.
"Racial topics are very emotionally charged for a lot of people, especially those who have been taught to have certain beliefs from a young age. Just because I understand where someone is coming from doesn't mean I agree with them."
Everyone was taught certain beliefs from a young age. If you don't agree with them why do you say if you were one of them you would probably hate white people?
"Yes, I am a bleeding heart hippie liberal tree-fucker, and I'm proud of it too. You calling me nasty names is not going to make me re-examine my point of view. It's just going to make me think you're a pent-up jerkoff. You're the one who's ignorant with your "If you disagree with me, you're wrong" attitude."
There are a lot of people who disagree with me and I appreciate their opinion, and arguing it with them, but those are people I can find common ground with. On this topic where you condone black people hating white people strictly based on race, there really isn't any middle ground. They are wrong, and you thinking it is okay is wrong. I know it is extremely difficult for you to say anyone is wrong because you are so empathetic and love to say you "understand" other peoples views, but don't for a second think that makes you kinder, smarter or less ignorant than someone who can see right from wrong.
I am just throwing this out there, but I am guessing you are in college or stil live with Mom and dad in an Upper middle class area? Maybe you even moved out, but they still help with the rent and car payments? That would help me understand your opinions a lot more.
Submitted by d_prime (user info) at 2005-08-09 23:00:36 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
http://www.ubersite.com/m/72812#1513785
"It's objectively wrong to think that any thing is objectively right or wrong." Great thinking there. You're giving Aristotle a run for his money.
Submitted by jimthefiend (user info) at 2005-08-09 17:05:00 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
ah holler this week then
812 821 7485
Submitted by Mike00295 (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:55:46 EDT (#)
Ranking: 0
I won't be down there until Friday. I live up in South Bend.
Submitted by jimthefiend (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:50:15 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Up for a beer tonight Mike?
Submitted by proofofpurchase (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:34:30 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
I used to ride the RTA bus from Turney Rd. in Maple Hts. to Broadway and then downtown. This was back in the day when it was safe to go with your friends at the age of 12-14 (early 80's). Can't do that there these days.
oh and good post.
Submitted by JonnyX (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:31:34 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
I'm Irish-American, and I can't wait to get my reparations, too!
We used to be known as the 'Niggers of Europe', and were routinely denied employment, housing, civil rights, and fair wages.
Wanna know why so many cops are Irish? Because 130 years ago, being a policeman was a shitty job that no one wanted, and since everyone thought the Irish were a bunch of belligerent drunks, that they were considered perfect for the job.
So rock on! my dusky-skinned brotha, I'm right behind you, with my hand out.
Submitted by mbstateside (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:31:31 EDT (#)
Ranking: 0
Heal the world.
Make it a better place.
For you and for me
and the entire human race......
I can see Mike's point in general here but I have to say I rode the bus home from work for about a month earlier this year after wreaking my car. I used to love having conversations with random people on the way home. And it must be said that the vast majority of them were with black people who just seamed happy to chat. No sign of any chip on any shoulders there.
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:10:55 EDT (#)
Ranking: 0
indoninja: I never said that all black people hate white people. I just said I can see the point of view of the black people that do hate white people. For that matter, I can understand the point of view of a militant pro-lifer and a KKK sympathizer, too.
Racial topics are very emotionally charged for a lot of people, especially those who have been taught to have certain beliefs from a young age. Just because I understand where someone is coming from doesn't mean I agree with them.
Yes, I am a bleeding heart hippie liberal tree-fucker, and I'm proud of it too. You calling me nasty names is not going to make me re-examine my point of view. It's just going to make me think you're a pent-up jerkoff. You're the one who's ignorant with your "If you disagree with me, you're wrong" attitude.
Submitted by d_prime (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:04:18 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
I doubt that when MLK wanted his children to be judged by their character and not by the color of their skin, he wanted races to have their own months and their own book sections and 'history,' and for black people to hate white people because of who they're related to did stupid things. Wasn't that the big error some white people made in the first place?
Submitted by d_prime (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:01:47 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Any hating some one for some thing other than their own personal characterists and actions, such as for who they're related to (be them white or black,) is inexcusable and wrong.
Submitted by ellsmall (user info) at 2005-08-09 16:01:03 EDT (#)
Ranking: -1
backa the bus, ofay!
Submitted by mazellan (user info) at 2005-08-09 15:47:01 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
I wish I could ride the bus with you, you seem the frendly type who would strike up a conversation.
Submitted by indoninja (user info) at 2005-08-09 15:20:23 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2005-08-09 12:31:58 (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by indoninja (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:45:19 (#)
Ranking: 1
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:19:37 (#)
Ranking: 2
I wouldn't presume to claim a real understanding of the plight of black people in America, but I have to say - if I were black, I would probably hate white people too.
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That is because you are ignorant, like most black people who hate white people.
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I'm not ignorant, I can just see where they are coming from. It's a very emotionally charged topic. Thanks a lot for calling me ignorant though, I really appreciate that.
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Ok if you aren't ignorant you are an idiot.
Would you see where someone who grew up with KKK for parents was coming from if they hated blacks, I doubt it.
What about about a someone who was brought up in a very pro-life family hating pro-choice people, would you understand that?
You could never understand them because they are evil right wingers, but you could understand Black people because they are a poor oppressed minority and you are suck a sensitive liberal. You couldn't expect a poor dumb black person to think beyond color, like an educated white girl like yourself. Do you really think all black people hate white people? and if they did you somehow think this is excusable? In my book that makes you as ignorant as any rascist.
Submitted by mbstateside (user info) at 2005-08-09 14:23:38 EDT (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by Arthur_Dent (user info) at 2005-08-09 14:21:56 (#)
Ranking: 2
If I get time I might write a black man's version of this.
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Now that is a good idea for a post. Do we have any black users on this site?
Submitted by Arthur_Dent (user info) at 2005-08-09 14:21:56 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
If I get time I might write a black man's version of this.
Submitted by mbstateside (user info) at 2005-08-09 14:14:09 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
"I only pray that no that you have opened my eyes my black brothers and sisters as well as God herself will forgive me the crime of being born to such a birth right."
Ahhh nuts typo, I guess you can all work out that was supposed to be now and not no on the first line. Still the humiliation I suffer from such a mistake is the least I deserve for my heinous crimes.
Submitted by d_prime (user info) at 2005-08-09 14:12:21 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Mike... I'm sorry about that time my great great uncle never called your great great aunt back the next day...
Xcuses better get ready to pull a gem out of his ass.
Submitted by mbstateside (user info) at 2005-08-09 14:11:03 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Mike I'm proud of you. If only all us honky's could share your ability to bravely own up for the sins of your fore fathers the world truly would be a better place.
In an effort to bring us closer to this great day I'd like to add my voice to yours and apoligise for my role in the terrible curse of slavery. Thanks to your words I have come to understand that the fact that my ancesters were 5,000 miles away and on the other side of the atlantic living as virtual slaves themselves is no excuse. I spit on the cowardly actions of my great, great, great, great grandfather who while working 14 or more hours a day as a 12 year old boy cared not one whit for the pains and troubles of our darker skinned breathren so many miles away. I understand that by his willing refusal to add his voice to their cause makes him just as guilty as those holding the whip. And I further understand that like the oringinal sin of Adam and Eve this guilt is passed down to me.
I only pray that no that you have opened my eyes my black brothers and sisters as well as God herself will forgive me the crime of being born to such a birth right.
Submitted by miss_tila (user info) at 2005-08-09 13:58:53 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
I'm working in the Food Service Indusrty now. I fucking hate it. This is the worst buisness I have ever worked in. I'm quitting Very, very soon. I should -2 just for saying food industry- but it's not your fault.
Submitted by Psychonaught (user info) at 2005-08-09 13:08:52 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Blacks can lick my perfectly trimmed white balls
Submitted by CookieLass (user info) at 2005-08-09 12:47:40 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
I loved going through my teenage years in an American ghetto. I got called all sorts of names, and when I asked why, it was always because I'm white and therefore my family must have owned slaves. Nevermind the fact that nobody in my family even lived in this country before 1923. I'm white, therefore, I must have been a slaveowner. If I punched them in the face for saying that, it would be a hate crime. But if I were black, and I punched someone in the face for saying that I was black and therefore must be a drug dealer, I'd be doing the world a favour by teaching whitey a lesson.
That sort of thing makes it really tough for me not to laugh atthe constant stream of racial slurs that come out of my boyfriend's mouth.
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2005-08-09 12:31:58 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Submitted by indoninja (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:45:19 (#)
Ranking: 1
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:19:37 (#)
Ranking: 2
I wouldn't presume to claim a real understanding of the plight of black people in America, but I have to say - if I were black, I would probably hate white people too.
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That is because you are ignorant, like most black people who hate white people.
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I'm not ignorant, I can just see where they are coming from. It's a very emotionally charged topic. Thanks a lot for calling me ignorant though, I really appreciate that.
Submitted by Xcuses (user info) at 2005-08-09 12:11:52 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
I have my work cut out for me but I'll do my best
Good luck
Submitted by Mike00295 (user info) at 2005-08-09 12:00:03 EDT (#)
Ranking: 0
Submitted by jet_stream_nz (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:45:12 (#)
Ranking: 0
Black Mans Shoes = $20
Bus Ticket = $2
Drinks @ the Bar = $10
Understanding that this particular man is angry at everyone - His wife just left him - PRICELESS.
An interesting post ... you cant take back the wrongs of the past, you can only make sure that you do no worngs in your life that others will have to live with in the future.
Also only they that assume they have been done wrong can let go of it.
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Everything you ever wanted to know about jet_stream_nz
User id: 21100
Registered on or around: 2005-08-08 11:01:27
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# Reviews written: 4
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Ya, thanks for all the insight. and the 0. Jerkoff
Submitted by pushedbyboredom (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:59:54 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
funny
Submitted by MyNameIsTim (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:59:37 EDT (#)
Ranking: 1
not bad.
could have used more comedy.
Submitted by jack11058 (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:57:47 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
good
Submitted by Darth_Adwain (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:50:40 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
hahaha
Submitted by jimthefiend (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:46:30 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
RACIST!!!!
Submitted by indoninja (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:45:19 EDT (#)
Ranking: 1
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:19:37 (#)
Ranking: 2
I wouldn't presume to claim a real understanding of the plight of black people in America, but I have to say - if I were black, I would probably hate white people too.
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That is because you are ignorant, like most black people who hate white people.
Submitted by jet_stream_nz (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:45:12 EDT (#)
Ranking: 0
Black Mans Shoes = $20
Bus Ticket = $2
Drinks @ the Bar = $10
Understanding that this particular man is angry at everyone - His wife just left him - PRICELESS.
An interesting post ... you cant take back the wrongs of the past, you can only make sure that you do no worngs in your life that others will have to live with in the future.
Also only they that assume they have been done wrong can let go of it.
Submitted by jgreening (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:43:53 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
My family was in Cleveland during the Civil War.
So yeah.
Submitted by manicvelocity (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:35:35 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Beautiful.
Now I have to go take my morning dump.
Submitted by Teephphah (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:34:10 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Racist.
Submitted by Axolotl (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:28:58 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
Damn...
My family actually owned slaves.
My other side of the family made up for it by fighting for the North, so it evens out.
Submitted by Jeanneee (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:19:37 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
I wouldn't presume to claim a real understanding of the plight of black people in America, but I have to say - if I were black, I would probably hate white people too.
Submitted by electrictoothsyndrome (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:19:30 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
This is fucking awesome!
Submitted by The_Yellow_Dart (user info) at 2005-08-09 11:19:30 EDT (#)
Ranking: 2
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