Open Mind...not always.

I used to think I was open minded. I used to think I was open to all sorts of different ideas, views and opinions. I used to think I was open minded when it comes to music.

Truth is, I have a long way to go. Yes, I am accepting of all sorts of different people. I am not tolerant of anyone who is a) hard core Republican b) proud red necks or c) obese people. I judge them. I make fun of them. I dislike them. It is a little immature for me to have such negative feelings for these types of people. They shouldn't make me angry. I have accept that they exist, and they might be good, decent people. I went to school with several Republicans, and lived in a city full of them (Jacksonville), and yes, many of them were very nice, enjoyable people. Perhaps I would have been one if I grew up in a military family. I don't know... I shouldn't judge them based on their political ideals. People are different. And that's a good thing.

I have a lot of resentment against country music. My best friends Ange and Morgan would blast it on our car trips, and I unwillingly learned all the lyrics to a Tim McGraw song. Everyone in Mt.Olive it seems loved country. It was always around me, and I tried desperately to escape it. I would be the only one it seemed who listened to Radiohead at my college. I felt very alone in my musical taste. I thought My Morning Jacket, and Wilco being rock, and then it dawned on me... there is such a thing called alternative country, and yes...I liked and listened to many bands in that genre. I never had a problem with old country music...just the way country is today. Contemporary country makes me want to blow my brains out. I can't handle it. I have such a strong hatred for it...and yes, this is being close minded. I really struggle with coming out of my comfort zone with music. True lovers of music can enjoy all types of music. I get caught up on stupid facts and groups that I possibly have missed out on a lot of good material. I have issues with certain artists because of what they said in an interview. I have the initial bad taste in my mouth when I find out a famous actor or actress is making an album. I need to get over this. I want to feel joy, not resentment and bitterness. Open my mind and explore new sounds! I guess it stems down to me being a little judgemental when it comes to anything new. It is immature and I don't wish to be this way. Baby steps, but I am working on getting over these irritants so I can be happier and have more to enjoy!!