A Kitchen Debate

A Kitchen Debate

“Respect for others opinions!! Respect for others opinions! You must be kidding. Did you not see the posturing, hear the rudeness and felt the ignorance that emanated from that speaker? It was absolutely revolting.” Harold was quivering with rage. His face was almost purple he was so mad. He had been stomping around the house for days since the last political debate. Milly, his wife of 39 years had dared to utter that maybe he could respect another’s opinion. 

“Oh, Harold, I didn’t mean we should agree with the man. I was just as revolted as you were. I’m certainly not going to get so mad I almost have a stroke. That certainly wouldn’t help any situation. Am I worried? I definitely am. But I can’t help but think of what my father would tell me long before you and I met. It was usually after some argument I had at school, sometimes after a debate. I would be so mad and just want to go to town on someone. Do you remember Billy White with his arrogant, entitled ways? Or another was Greta Compton who just thought her way was the only way to do anything. Anyway, dad would tell me…I fought in the war that let people have the right to their opinions. ‘But, Milly’….he would say…..‘Milly you don’t have to agree or even like anyone, and really you shouldn’t respect unsavoury behaviour and mean attitudes. Keep it all in perspective, honey.’ 

Harold was silent for a few minutes then said “Well, I’m still mad and I still just want to throttle the guy. I don’t even know why I kept listening. I’ll never respect that man’s opinions. I hate it, but I do respect his right to have those horrible, mean, and just plain rude opinions.”

“That’s good, dear. I really don’t like it when you get so upset. The steaks on the barbeque are ready, so get your plate and fill it up. There’s creamed corn and potato salad on the kitchen table. The patio table is all set and the wind has gone down. The sun is just lovely and warm with just a bit of breeze.”

“Barking at people earns their respect about as

 effectively as staring in the sun improves your vision.”

~ Richelle E. Goodrich, Slaying Dragons