Comfort Level

I don't expect this world to make me comfortable.


The world is full of things that make me uncomfortable. Icy cold rooms, noisy crowds, and flashing lights put me on edge. People who swear like sailors in public or indulge in excessive public displays of affection seriously offend me (I'm not talking about holding hands or hugs and kisses, I'm talking about extended tonsil hockey sessions and under-clothing groping at the mall.) Watching someone chew with their mouth open makes me retch.


These things make me uncomfortable, but I have to bear them. Why? Because regardless of how much discomfort it causes me, it is their right to do these things. My desire to feel comfortable anyplace outside of my own house, or even my own room is, in my opinion, trumped by their right to do anything in public that is not unlawful. If I don't like it, then it it my responsibility to move away.


It is not my place to tell anyone else how to live their lives, or what decisions to make, or how to act.  it's not my place to tell you that you are a bad person, or a bad parent, or a bad influence.
  
My strong belief in personal liberty is such that I will defend someone else's rights even if they make me uncomfortable. I don't consider myself a political person - I'm registered, I vote, and I follow politics at both the local and federal level, but I generally don't get involved anymore. My protest days are well behind me, a part of my high school and college memories - I am far too old and tired to raise hell over the little things. I only become inflamed and speak out when restrictions are placed on what I feel are my (or someone else's) rights as a citizen of the United States and as an intelligent sentient being.


This world does not exist to make me feel safe. It is because this world does not keep me safe that I am truly able to experience life.