This past week, I had the pleasure of having my vehicle decorated by an unknown individual. You didn’t show your face. You waited until I walked away. You disappeared as quickly as you came.
The picture you left on the back end of my car…is…something I can’t put into words. Not because I don’t want to…but because I just can’t.
When I found it, I panicked. Mostly because I was worried that people would see; I was worried that people would think that I put it there. What if I had driven around with that on my bumper? A thousand thoughts raced through my head. I was embarrassed, confused, shaken, and after a few moments, I tore it off my car… and got angry.
I’m angry because you weren’t brave enough to face me with your opinion.
I’m angry because you tried to use me to convey your message.
I’m angry because you tried to rob me of my own voice.
I’m angry because you are a coward.
You don’t represent me. You don’t own me. If you have something you want to get off your chest, then have at it! Stand for what you believe and the people will judge you for it, one way or another. Don’t you dare pretend like I am your friend or ally simply because of the colour of my skin. You don’t know anything about me.
If you are reading this right now and would like your “artwork” back, give me a shout. I’ll gladly return it to you and let you know what I think.
We should spend more time listening.
We should welcome open discourse.
We should find ways to move forward together.
We should be better than this.
The CJBuzz 