House-sitting job reveals messy problem
It is not possible to have a rational conversation with people who support a racist, mentally unstable, mean-spirited administration.
As a retired fireman, I worked for 25 years with people who were mostly conservative. Some of whom I have kept in touch with by email for 20 years.
They are immune to reason and even to truth. I can and have pointed out to them how they are being lied to and sent them irrefutable evidence of the lie. Not one has changed their minds.
-- Frustrated Fireman
Dear Frustrated: I commend you for trying.
We seem to be living in an era of cognitive dissonance. In order to support an administration they want to believe in, some otherwise decent people either accept -- or allow you to think they accept -- all of the behavior and beliefs of the administration they voted for.
I do believe in the power of friendship and community to inspire and affect change. I don't think it is your responsibility, however, to insist that people change their minds for you, even if you are right and they are wrong.
Dear Amy: I love the letter (and your response) from "Daughter in a Dilemma." This daughter was deeply grateful to her folks and was trying to find ways to repay their generosity.
What a refreshing and affirmative question! Thank you for pointing out that she should "love them in abundance." That's repayment enough.
-- Grateful Parent
Dear Grateful: It's nice to read about high-functioning families.
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(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)
