Here’s a response I received from cross-posting this blog on Talking Points Memo. <link>.

Wonderful post!

We all carry that burden to some degree and the day of true brotherhood and sisterhood is still not yet here. Its a work-in-progress, but there sure are happy signs that things are getting better and your post is one of them. Thanks.

Recommended.

And from Daily Kos <link>

Thank you, Sir for your honesty.

And while I appreciate your comment, it also makes me rather sad and discouraged that things can or ever will change. To know that there are still so many in this country, even elected officials who are against Affirmative Action - citing sometimes the argument that it is reverse discrimination, taking 'opportunities' away from those who are most qualified. But I think your response goes to the heart of Affirmative Action, in that it provides a systematic avenue to provide exposure to diversity - therefore providing more 'opportunities' for the good of all, not just one group of people. And that could only benefit the country and the world.

One thing to consider, when attempting to break your patterns of beliefs about blacks... is that blacks historically have had little choice but to trust whites because of prevalent exposure and of course, the power structure of the society. With the exception of very few places in this country, you'd be hard pressed to find blacks that didn't have everyday exposure - and still, with the frequency they are distrusted by whites, continue to put their faith and trust in whites. Sometimes I feel that's a bit naive...

Anyway, thanks again for sharing your thoughts and experience.

Rec you to death, I would!

This is how I had hoped to affect those here; obviously in some instances I have failed.