Generalization

 When you speak about a group of people, do you group them all together? For instance, "Those black people" or "Those Democrats" or"Those people in the South side". If you do, you are generalizing that ALL 'those' people are bad or good. Categorizing a group of a certain group, religion, color, race or affiliation is wrong. What you are saying is ALL people in that particular group is bad or wrong. That is usually not true. Yes, there are radials in every group.

Nancy and I have trip all over the world meeting many cultural groups from Muslims, to Indian to Orientals, to Blacks, browns, to LGBT and, yes many whites. We have many good friends in ALL of these groups. Anytime we have been with people from any of these groups, we have always been treat with friendly open arms and kindness. We have been offered and excepted an invite to stay in their homes, and share a meal with them. In turn, we have offered them to do the same.

I believe each person should be judged on their own characteristics and personality, not the color of their skin, religion or political believes. Determining whether you want to be friends with them or not in a personalized 'gut feeling'. Just because the other person does not like the present politician, or share your views on religion, or who should be your team's quarterback, does not mean you can not be friends, or feel passion for their efforts.

So many times I hear a reference of "those people in the MOB" or because someone has many tattoos you automatically think they are in a gang or a biker. Get to know the person before making up your mind. Preconceived opinions often come from childhood and escalate as we get older. Parents or friends may have convenient you to believe the way they see the world and people. Most people naturally believe opinions that see a group or person in a bad light. Just watch the political commercials. They always show someone's mistakes or find something bad about that person or group in hopes of turning you against that person or group.

You must be better that, and do your homework or research to find the true facts. Just following someone else lead does not show well on you. Be that fact checker before you decide if they are good or bad. One of my favorite quotes is, "Opinions are like butts, everyone has one. Some smell and other are clean." Also we all hear, "Never judge a book by its cover." 

And finally, just because you associate with someone, does not necessarily mean you share the same ideas, opinions or philosophy. So beware of others grouping you in that crowd. Association does not mean your are guilty, unlike you are.

The bottom line is, just because you are black, brown, Muslim, Republican, Democrat, or whatever, you can make your own determination about groups and individuals. You ARE SMARTER than the per-judging people.😏

I invite you to comment.