Words are cheap

There’s plenty that belongs in the verbal bargain bin. I keep seeing people shout from the rooftops about how they are not the least bit racist, only to go on and discriminate against certain groups of people. Just because they say it—even if they believe it—doesn’t make it true.

I have a tendency to take people at their word, particularly because when I say something I actually mean it. I think that others are not so different. But I’m learning that’s rather naive of me.

Actions are probably the only way to judge someone. Do they do what they say they will? Are they consistent? Do their actions adhere to their principles?

I remember how years ago, I had a girl in my university class. She came across a bit stuck up. A know-it-all. Judge-y. I didn’t really like her, to be honest. But, one day after class I told her about how much I was struggling in my Spanish class. It seemed like I was the only one in that class who didn’t already know a bit prior to signing up for the course and the i…