A few weeks ago a “friend” said something to me that was so shocking and painful. He called me an “elitist” and said “you think you’re better than other people“. Damn. My soul was crushed. For real.
I swear I was so stunned by what he said I just knew I misunderstood him. So, I got the dictionary and looked up the word elitist. Shit. I had it right. My understanding of elitist was on point. As I read the definition over and over again anger started to rise. “Clearly he does not know me,” I thought. “I am one of the most down to earth people ever created.”
So, I went to Facebook and posted “Today coworker called me elitist. He told me I thought I was better that other people“. I just knew that posting this to my circle of 551 best friends would garner support. Instead I got the following responses:
“And the problem with this is….?”
“You are an elitist. Be proud!”
WTF?????????
I was so confused. This is not a description I find flattering or complementary. I find it to be degrading and reprehensible. I am not an elitist. I do not think I’m better than anyone on this earth. I’m a good friend. I treat people as fairly and respectfully as I can. I walk around with a damn smile on my face as to show myself friendly. I open myself up to strangers and treat them as my closest friends. I am not an elitist.
I know it is ridiculous that I’m still holding on to that stupid statement my “friend” made after all these weeks. But I know who I am and I’m totally offended that he would make such harsh comments that were clearly intended to hurt me. Well, he succeeded. I’m hurt. I’m also angry because it seemed to be his honest and true opinion of me. I wonder why I ever considered him my friend. I’m also wondering why my Facebook friends would rally around such a comment as if it should be applauded. I AM NOT AN ELITIST!
Sometimes wanting the best for you and your family can be perceived as “elitism”. Do you know what I mean??????? I think this person wants something that you are not interested in giving….. He is just saying something to get a “rise” out of you..He did! Love ya!
You’re not elitist AT ALL! You’re open and welcoming. I think someone is a little jealous. Did he ever try to talk to you, and you turned him down???
Hilarious, Latonya. You’re not the first to say that. LOL
Well, I can’t say that I’ve known you long as I only met you once in October. But I can say I didn’t feel you had any air of an elitist attitude. I’m sorry that some would think that, but I thought you were sweet as could be. And the fact that were willing to share what you have learned with all of us speaks volumes.