Why is it that one insignificant comment from a misguided person can upset us?

After the newscast today, I checked my email.  I received a very disturbing email from a viewer.  I won’t repeat all of it.  Apparently this viewer is not very happy about Barack Obama getting the Democratic nomination for President.  The person wrote that “all of us who have enjoyed the benefits of affirmative action must be very excited.”  Well, needless to say, I was hurt and a little angry.  I have worked very hard to get where I am and I’d like to think I have a little more to offer to my employer than the color of my skin. 

When I was working in Texas, my news director decided to launch a morning newscast.  There were many people, black and white, who wanted the job.  For whatever reason, my news director decided I would be the best person for the job. (Thank you, David Lowell.)  After a few years, I got the job here in Indianapolis.  When I left Texas, David Lowell did not try to find another black female to replace me.  He gave the job to a white man.  So much for trying to keep up with a so-called quota.  David looked for the best person for the job.  That’s what made him (and continues to make him) a great leader. 

I hope my current boss doesn’t mind me saying this… but I think most station managers only care about one color… green.  If they thought someone with pink skin and purple hair could bring in high ratings, they would hire that person.

My husband, as well as Paul and Tom agreed that I shouldn’t give such an ugly email a second thought.  It did make me think, however, about the fact that being a public figure means anyone can contact me at any time and say whatever they want.  It’s o-k, though.  We have freedom of speech in this country.  I chose to believe that most people are kind and chose to judge people on the content of their character.

And as we get ready to elect a new president, I chose to believe our leader will do his best for all people… black, white and all of the beautiful shades in between.