Tolerance... hmmm something to ponder

          Everywhere I turn I hear people using the term 'tolerance' with it comes to dealing with peoples basic human and civil rights. When I think about the use of this term I am reminded of a scene in one of my favorite movies when Miss Vida Boheme and Noxeema Jackson are talking:

          Vida Boheme: Your approval is not needed.

          Noxeema Jackson: Approval neither desired nor required.

Though this quote is about approval and acceptance it still comes to mind when I think of 'tolerance'. First let us take a look at the definition of the word 'tolerance' when it comes to the way it is used for peoples rights. According to The American Heritage dictionary tolerance is: 'a fair, objective, and permissive attitude toward those whose opinions, practices, race, religion, nationality, etc., differ from one's own; freedom from bigotry.' The part of tolerance I have an issue with is the thought of a permissive attitude towards others.

          In America we have developed an egocentric attitude where we believe as a society that our approval or disapproval of how people live, who they are, or what their beliefs should carry weight on those who are different rights. This is a false ideology we have created. Our very foundation as a nation prohibits this kind of thinking from effecting our citizens rights, yet there are those that try their hardest to deny them.

          When they are confronted with the fact they have not legal right they feel they should not be forced to tolerant this people. Well no one is asking you to tolerant anyone. No one is asking you to approve in any shape, form, or fashion these people. What is being demanded is that people be given the equal rights this nation was founded on.

          So in the spirit of the words from Miss Vida Boheme and Noxeema Jackson: Tolerance is not need... Permission neither desired nor required! Simply butt out of my rights and business.