Being born in the southeastern United States, there is a very high chance you are both Republican and Christian. That true regional stereotype accompanies a behavior to discriminate against others. I have witnessed countless acts of racism and religious intolerance along with an irrational hate of homosexuality. Several members of my extended family act this way, as does the majority of Southern society I've witnessed. I always knew that my grandfather's side of the family was a terrible influence on young, impressionable minds. Until I was 17, I rarely saw them more than three times a year, and for a good reason. He was drunk or smoking half of the time. His vocabulary, a racist ensemble of incoherent nonsense contained nothing a child needed …show more content…
The church I have belonged to since I was born began vilifying other religions and sexualities. I left that church this year. I explored other churches in Chattanooga of several denominations, but I have yet to feel belonging in a place where they act like Christians. My parents taught me extremely well about tolerance. If it doesn't affect you or your rights, they have a right to do it no matter your opinion. But as I mature my religion feels populated with people who do not follow the fundamental idea; treat everyone, the way God and Jesus would. I may not agree or endorse homosexual marriage; it does not mean I have a right to treat them any less than I would my brother. I am not a Republican. I do not promote vilifying Republicans, insulting their intelligence, and throwing their ideas away. Being raised around a consistent ideology has left me with the desire to see others. I want to experience new places, ingest new ideas, learn about other people, explore cultures, and argue my morals and standpoints with others. I have no desire to experience one mindset my entire life. Staying in a closed minded area while possessing an open mind is not enjoyable. Furthering my education is a blessing and a wonderful opportunity. My goal is to see the world from every possible angle, and staying locked in a city will not achieve