I was sitting here, browsing at all of the blogs, wondering what my first blog should be about, when all of a sudden, I came across something. And as Ray Romano said, "Sometimes material presents itself."
I just came across a blog that hit me pretty hard. It dealt with the subject of illegal immigrants in the US. This one particular entry stated that illegal aliens should be allowed to do what they please, that they hated this country, and that they were only here to make money and do the jobs Americans will not. It further stated that they were needlessly criticized for their language and their culture, and that Americans should learn to speak their language and learn their customs. Wow. I don't know about anyone else, but I feel this individual needs a reality check.
Now, I am totally for finding a way that will allow illegal aliens and their children to obtain citizenship. I understand that the fees that have to be paid may be out of reach for some people who are looking for a new life, and I support the politicans who claim they will not only protect our borders but aid aliens as well. Our country is known for its unique diversity, and this is what makes America so special. So, by all means, aliens should be allowed to protect their customs as well as their language. Some of America's greatest cities were built on perserving foreign customs, such as Little Italy and Chinatown in New York.
But if someone were to come into this country, looking for its citizens to change their customs to abide by theirs, that person would be way out of line. If a family ritually prayed before each meal, and you as a guest in that family's house disregarded their tradition, would that not make you rude and ungrateful? Would that not be out of line? So, if you come into this country, illegally, no less, would you not be rude and ungrateful to try to change what America has established as traditional? Such as, English as a first language? And paying taxes to support the government? Can you really rightfully expect to do as you please while Americans themselves abide by certain ways and customs that have become part of everyday life?
I hope I have made my point. If not, I'll spell it out. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. No, not the song. Don't come into my country, and tell me how to do things. Respect your boundaries, and our traditions, and we will respect yours.
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
I definitely agree. On the one hand, I think it's true that we should have a certain respect for immigrant cultures. We Americans tend to be very Anglocentric, and as increasing numbers of non-English-speakers enter the nation, it's a good idea to be open to learning their language and customs -- after all, they're part of the melting pot which makes up our nation.
On the other hand, there is a difference between wanting respect from American citizens and refusing to respect citizens in turn. It's a fine balance. Ethnocentrism isn't good, but neither do I support people disregarding that which makes America what it is.
I do think, however, that that attitude isn't one which is held by a majority of immigrants. I live relatively close to the border (in a border state, at least), and I know many Mexican immigrants (legal and, most likely, otherwise); in my experience, that degree of disrespect isn't prevalent. I'm not saying everything's rosy, but things aren't generally that extreme.
Hm, I must admit, I have not had much experience in regards to illegal immigrants. I do know a few, and I have to agree with you, they do not share this degree of resentment for this country. But I read the blog, and I got heated at the thought that anybody who was illegally living here could say something like that.
Thank you for taking the time to read it and share your thoughts! =]
A lot of times, it seems like people either don't even see the immigrants as human or they see them as people who have equal or even greater rights than citizen. It's nice to hear someone put things in perspective - yes they need to be legally dealt with, but they're still human beings...
Thank you. =] I am glad others share the same opinion.