Two very interesting events.

Two very interesting events.

I work the graveyard shift at a convenience store and meet a wide variety of people. One of the staff I work with is an 18 year old little shit but that’s a whole different story. The reason he’s important is that he found out I’m a Democrat and he chooses to belittle me for that. “I’m voting for McCain, a vote for McCain is a vote for America,” and that sort of shit.

Anyway, he needs a ride home and his friend show up to provide a ride home. I’m introduced as “the Democrat, yeah, that’s what they look like” and his friend takes his lead off that jab.

I respond, “Yeah and this is a Republican who votes against his own interest.” To which the young man replies, “Hey, I’m voting McCain because he’s pro military and I’m enlisting as soon as I graduate.”

I said, “Pro military, huh. Call him and ask why he is voting against increasing Veteran’s education benefits to cover a four year degree. While you’re at it ask why he’s voted against every expansion of Veteran’s benefits since 1999.”

“Hmmm. I guess I’ll have to do some research.”

A few weeks later he again comes in to give a ride to the little shit. “Have you done any research?” “Yeah, and you’re right. McCain is no friend of the soldiers. Still, I just don’t know about Obama . . .”

“Look, the Republicans aren’t your friend. Three years into the war and guys like you still didn’t have body armor or up-armored vehicles. Today, in the sixth year of war, we can’t deliver MRAPS to prevent half of the casualties from IEDs. Yet the second ‘next generation’ fighter plane designed to kill an enemy that doesn’t exist costs $685 an ounce. We could build it out of sterling silver and save $ 2 mil a copy. But don’t take my word for it, look it up for yourself.”

“Thanks, I will.”

It makes me feel good to know not everybody is like the little shit I have to work with.

Second event:

2:00 AM and three young black men come into the store. I mention race only because it adds to the dimension of the character. One, the fellow everybody seems to defer to, flashes his tattoos to me and says, “Just got back. Second tour in Faluja, Jack. US fuckin’ marines.” He’s heavy into the persona of hip-hop street-smart and just a little intimidating.

I’m 60, white, a little overweight and a lot gray. I said, “You have my respect Sir. Faluja is not a very nice place. I never saw combat myself. The only action I saw was in Washington D.C. I was there in September of 1969 for the Vietnam Moratorium and again in May of 1970 for the May Day protest. Riot control. 500,000 protesters on the streets and 500,000 soldiers in Vietnam. Maybe it’s time to do that again.”

His whole demeanor changed. He relaxed, made eye contact and offered his hand across the sales counter.

I wish I could talk to these people or about them without being all verklimpt. It’s just hard sometimes.

Changing attitudes, one mind at a time.

:thumbsup:

Thank you and keep it up.

at least he was willing to do the research you suggested..the guys I worked with weren't even willing to do that.

Congratulations on your labors! :thumbsup:

classmate who came to give him a ride home. Maybe some of this will sink in, I don't know. I do know I reached his classmate and that stands for something.

and that's ok. You done good! :thumbsup: As a famous man is reported to have said "One plants, another waters, another harvests." Sometimes that's just the way it works.

"Don't believe me.. really... look it up"

One of the things I liked best about Randi Rhodes.. she would say that..