Stereotypes

Never give up; you never know until you try.

I had an interesting conversation with a friend the other day.  A friend and mentee of hers, "C," had told her a story about a new colleague, "M," and how "M" had casually made a religious reference in a meeting one day.  I wondered where the office conversation had gone after that, because you never know what will happen when someone mentions religion.  I knew it must be something unusual or provocative, because my friend was telling me about it with her "You've got to hear this!" tone.   If "M's" comment was made so casually, what mayhem ensued, I wondered?

Fortunately, nothing bad happened.  No blood was shed.  No insults were hurled.  (Seemingly) no one even was offended.  Something good happened.  At least one person's eyes were opened.  At least one mind was broadened.  At least one person realized her presupposition.

It seems that when "M" shared her religious beliefs, "C" was surprised that "M" subscribes to that particular belief system.  Why was "C" surprised, when "M's" religious group is among one of the major religions practiced?  "C" admitted that she had fallen prey to racial and ethnic stereotyping.  "M's" beliefs didn't match the profile that "C" had in her head.  "C" realized that, while she is in many ways an open-minded, non-judgmental person, stereotypes and prejudices are still alive and kicking in her thinking. 

"C" felt bad that she had fallen prey to narrow-minded thinking, but my friend pointed out to her that at least she had realized her mistake.  It happens, and I wish that everyone would be as aware and teachable as "C" and realize, regret, and work to correct their erroneous, often harmful, beliefs. 

"C," I applaud you.  As "they" used to say, "You go, girl!"