*This is simply an account of a personal experience.  I shall not debate any aspect of politics, religion, or cultural issues on this blog.  Disrespectful comments will be deleted.  Thank you.   Not too long ago, I visited a quaint town north of the Rappahannock River in Virginia—a place with lovely architecture, scenic views, upscale shops, galleries, and restaurants.  One day, as I was exploring the town, I decided to go into one of the art galleries.  I entered and exchanged a few niceties with the salesperson. Accustomed to tourists, she asked where I was from. “Virginia,” I answered. “What part of Virginia?” she probed. “I live between Roanoke and Lynchburg,” I said. To which she responded, “Oh, you’re from the other Virginia.” Let me just say…..I knew what she meant.  Her tone and facial expression conveyed arrogance and superiority.  It was a comment that carried a negative connotation regarding a particular view of the political, religious, and cultural identities of people living south of the Rappahannock River–what some historians call the “grits line.” I glanced in her direction and smiled.  Because, y’all know in the other Virginia, many of us are taught the old adage:  “If you can’t say something nice, then don’t say anything at all.”  So, I continued to walk around, viewing the artwork silently.  As I made my way through the gallery, these questions crossed my mind. “Is she trying to be offensive? Or, bless her […]

Read More →