Overdosing on rudeness
How did we all get so angry?
Twenty years ago, no one heard of road rage, killing rampages at our schools or such a huge lack of respect for our political leaders.
Our parents raised us better than that. Has our generation lost its moral compass?
Three recent high-profile events illustrate my point perfectly. First is the disrespectful outburst by Rep. Joe Wilson toward President Obama during a speech to Congress. Like his politics or not, the office of the president deserves respect.
Secondly, who witnessed Serena Williams’ threatening tirade directed at a line judge at the U.S. Open? There are always bad calls in sports; get over it.
And last, the interruption of Taylor Swift by Kanye West during her acceptance speech at the VMA Awards show was beyond rude. His self-importance overshadowed a very special moment for a young girl.
These three instances do not have a life-or-death impact, but they illustrate a lack of respect and compassion that runs deep in our society today. The anger at our president, the opposing party and different points of view is chilling.
Having the right to do something doesn’t make it the right thing to do.
Rose Kelly Rhoades
Spokane