Michael O' wrote:
YES, Ronnie ! A religion and a cult. But they are fine people. I've lived in Missippi (that's how they say it there) twice -- Biloxi and Jackson. Have traveled there as a Caterpillar Engine Rep, and in Loosiana (that's how the Missippi folks say it), Bama (okay -- Alabama) and teanasee (that's how the Tennessee folks "come out with it"), and also traveled Floida (Florida that is) and Giogia or Gioga (Georgia to y'all).Good folks all, with honor, openness, sincerity, and most trustworthy -- Oh yes, and the good folks in the Carolinas -- Caolinas that is. People of the south are filled with integrity -- they make we Nawthanas (Northerners to y'all) seem like loudmouthed shysters and con artists in comparison. The South is populated by what I call "real people." You will never meet better. They are a pleasure to work with, to live with as neighbors, and a pleasure to play and party with. Lived in Texas and didn't find it much different except they tend to be a bit more in your face with their attitudes, but they are nothing compared to New Yawk City folks. I have good and life-long friends from Texas and Oklahoma.
I've lived or traveled in 30 countries, learning much from many, so maybe my views are as bit broader than the average bear. But I find it a bit distasteful that in the "Nawth" it is not uncommon to find talk of how fine or good the black race is, yet most up here apparently don't want to personally associate with a black. On the other hand, in the South the whites may not talk lovingly of the blacks, but it is very common for that same man or woman to actually openly, quickly. and extensively help a black if they see one in need. That is a great rarity in the "Nawth" in my experience. The Nawth tends to talk a good line about the blacks as a group, but doesn't want to associate with them or directly help a one of them. The average "Suthana" doesn't talk much about blacks, but they DO for them when there is individual need. The average Nawthana seems to be only all talk. I hope I've just misread the Northerner's attitude, but my experience tells me which is the most moral. And neither is the average Southerner afraid to admit he or she is God-lovin', whether they attend church regularly or not. Too often some person or entity from the North will castigate Southerners with the title of "redneck" or "hillbillies" or "Holy Roller". Webster defines hillbilly as a "Michigan dirt farmer." So what's wrong with that anyway, unless you are a prejudiced New Yawk City, Chicago, or L.A. self-judged elitist ? And "Redneck" is a term the elitist uses to unfairly label those with whom the elitist doesn't agree. If you're not sweet, pretty, sly, and conniving, then you must be a redneck ? Brings to mind "HOGWASH."
So all y'all come on down, heah now !
There are good people everywhere, if you'll just look for them. I've found them in 30 countries. It's a great world out there if you just mingle, learn, understand, and accept.
Michael O'
YES, Ronnie ! A religion and a cult. But they ar... (
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Michael O what a wonerful, lovely tribute you have made! You got that right about good people everywhere---they just don't ever stop! it's a marvel and a wonder and something to set our joy on daily!