Before I get into this post let me just say that I love my co-workers. I am not trying to disparage the elderly in any way. I think they are great. However, some of the sh*t they say is just insane. It's like their social acceptability radar hasn't been updated since 1962.
The things they say are so insanely socially unacceptable that they go way beyond offensive. Yet, like a kid you can't get angry at them because the intent isn't evil, just ignorant and sometimes very, very funny. Of course, they don't think they are ignorant. And, let's be honest, they will never change. They will see the world in their way until they die and there is nothing anyone can do about it.
Once one of these well meaning (but a bit socially stunted) old men asked me if I had a green card. Since I wasn't born in this country he assumed that I must be illegal. Another co-worker heard this and cringed. This could have been an HR nightmare. The other coworker instantly came to my defense (I was laughing too hard to repond).
"She couldn't work here if she didn't" he educated my old pal.
"Yes", I replied, "we work for a multibillion dollar company trust me they checked me out."
"Is it valid?" the old guy asked (again perfectly innocent, no mal intent). At this point my other co-worker walked away probably afraid for his job.
"Yes, it is. "
"How long you had it?"
"Many years."
"Oh OK, as long as its good." I think he was a bit relieved.
I found this exchange hilarious. Especially since I work with another foreign national from Canada (who happens to be white) and he has never questioned her legal status. The Canadian, who happens to be a good friend, was horrified that this exchange took place. What she thought was a HR issue, I thought was the coolest thing to happen to me that day. Believe it or not working in a funeral home isn't as exciting as many would believe. When I started working there someone told me they had ghosts, she lied.
Perhaps I am missing that "chip" that makes me sensitive to ignorance. I love moments like this. Its a great opportunity to see how some people think and hopefully teach someone something. If nothing else can we just enjoy the hilarity of moments like these?
I get that we live in this super politically correct society where everyone must toe some imaginary line. But, if we aren't open to allowing questions like these aren't we just perpetuating the ignorance? I never want anyone to be afraid to ask me something. Of course I may tease, but I am not offended. Maybe my skin is a bit thicker than most, or maybe our society has become a bit too sensitive.
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