I have friends and family with political views very different from my own. Many are so opposed to my beliefs that we avoid discussing politics altogether, choosing to focus on the ideals we share to prevent adding to the growing division in our country. When I see big pickup trucks displaying large flags and “MAGA” slogans, I don’t react aggressively or confront those drivers.
I am first an American and second a Democrat. However, several weeks ago, I was confronted by a white male extremist at the Crater Car Wash on “F” Street. He proceeded to verbally attack me at the nearby gas station, hurling vile, racist, and misogynistic slurs, even asking if I was a “f-ing ni**er lover.” On another occasion, a woman approached me on 6th Street near the Republican office and told me not to park on “her” side of the street, asserting that it belonged to Republicans.
I also recently helped an elderly couple with a puppy they were struggling to care for. After driving a considerable distance and taking time out of my day to assist, the husband saw my “Vote for Harris” sticker as I drove away and launched into a profanity-laced tirade, shouting, “Keep the f**k going.” It seems that in their version of America, it’s acceptable to unleash a torrent of hostility at a stranger. In my America, it’s not.
I am aware that some Democrats also behave poorly at times, but the imbalance in self-appointed privilege and aggression is evident. I will continue to proudly display my flags and exercise my right to free expression, just as others do. However, I ask for respect in return, not hostility.
Then, just recently, I encountered a different kind of interaction. In the WinCo parking lot, a man in a large truck was looking at me intently. I braced myself, wondering if another outburst was coming. We both ended up at Panda Express, and I noticed him watching me through his rearview mirror. When he got out of his truck and approached my car, I felt a moment of fear.
But as he walked over, his demeanor was kind, and he had a gentle smile. He said, “Thank you for putting a smile on my face today. Be careful out there; there are some dangerous people around. You made my day.” That man represents my America—the one where kindness still exists despite our differences.
– Raleigh Smith