;What would you do if you heard something that touched you to the very core? That you knew was wrong.
While waiting in my local airport I was sitting with my back to the on board staff of the flight. I had one hand on my computer and the other on my workbook as I prepped for the engagement I was flying to. The dull buzz of the departure lounge froze as I heard these words, “They were acting like a bunch of retards.” My heart stopped for a moment, as I turned to see where these hurtful words were coming from.
They were not coming from young kids who perhaps could be excused by not knowing better. Much to my surprise (and disappointment) they came from the mouth of the adult who was second in command of the plane.
It was an instant when I knew silence was not an option. After about a 30 second conversation with myself to decide if speaking up was the right thing to do, I decided it was my responsibility to politely and respectfully educate him.
While it is unlikely that he was trying to be rude, insensitive and hurtful, the fact is, he was.
“Excuse me sir,” I began and then launched into a 60 second explanation of why what he had said was so offensive.
I would have let it go at that if I had received something vaguely resembling remorse, sincerity or at least a new understanding. Instead, this ‘gentleman’ rolled his eyes, turned his back to me and mumbled a snarly ‘sorry.’
Now I was mad. Ignorance is one thing, but this was even beyond that. When they introduced the flight crew, I listened with more interest than I had ever listened before. Head office would be hearing about this incident not with the intention to dish the airline but with the intention of educating the person.
Buddy, I don’t care how many stripes you have on your shirt, respect needs to be earned and you are not getting it from me. Time to grow up and into the privilege that comes with wearing that shirt.
The ‘R’ word is not acceptable, it is hurtful and offensive. It is akin to a racial slur and it is not OK. Google ‘The R Word’ to see a couple of great 30 second public service announcement about this topic.
Sometimes we have to take a stand for something that we believe in, even if it’s uncomfortable, even if it’s awkward, even if it’s hard.
What will you take a stand for?