Day 72: A stereotype disproved

If you know me, you know I'm a preppy, sometimes naive, sort of sweet natured girl, who tries to accept people for who they are. But, it's easy to let your mind run away with the stereotypes you hear every day. Maybe you avoid parts of a city because you think the kids hanging on the corner are going to try to steal your car. Or, you don't apply to the local country club because you're afraid of not being high class enough. Stereotypes are around us everyday and it takes strong people to try and steer clear of them and see people for who they are. As much as I believe this, I'm guilty of assuming things about people and no one was more surprised than myself when I was disproved today.

Basically, I hung out with a bunch of bikers all day. That is, people who ride motorcycles...not bicycles. :) Frankly, the leather vests and pants, long hair and beards, and tattoos have put me off in the past, made me a little apprehensive. They look kind of mean! Like they don't have time for some silly blonde girl and her most likely sillier questions. But, after signing in hundreds for my work's ride today, I'm looking at them in a whole new light. They were the nicest, most polite people I've spoken with in a long time, and the comraderie they shared as a group is one to be admired. They simply love to ride, to share the experience with each other and to often help a cause. And, if they like to look a little mean while they're doing, so be it. It's up to everyone else to look past the facade and see the heart. I did and was pleasantly surprised. Next time, I won't be so quick to judge.