The More Things Change, The More They Stay the Same...

As I read and hear about the times people like my mother and other old-schoolers experienced, I'm astounded to see how far we've come in this country (e.g. President Barack Obama), yet sometimes I'm digusted to see where we are and where we're headed when I walk down the street or take public transportation en route to work.

But, I wasn't on my way to work when I experienced what I experienced for the first time a week after 29th birthday. I was on the bus on my way home from a friend's going-away party. As a man exited the back door of the bus, he looked at me and yelled, "You've got to be the ugliest nigger bitch I've ever seen!"

As one can imagine, I was in complete and utter shock. I was in disbelief. This is 2011, not 1961, right?! I'm not oblivious to the fact President Obama's presence stirred up controversy and brought out hate in people who've wanted to express it (and are expressing it, some are more obvious about it than others). But, seriously? Sure, the man was intoxicated from some substance, but he knows and meant what he said. My sister tells me, "What he meant was you were one of the most beautiful women he's ever seen."

I recall that feeling from that moment a week ago, and it wasn't a good one. True, I know who I am, but it's still disturbing that kind of hate still exists. It was interesting to read just two days later in an article "My First Time" I wasn't the only one. What saddens me even more is I won't be the last.