Resistance or Acceptance

     From time to time, I've lightly touched on an idea that is radically un-radical.  A method of gaining more acceptance in society than we're going to get trying to shove an agenda down everyone's throats.  As I've stated before, I used to be on the other side of this.  I know how they think, and how they feel; how they act and react.  I also know that you will never get anyone to accept you by bludgeoning them.  In other words, we need to stop with the zealotry.

    Zealotry refers to fervent and uncompromising pursuit or advocacy of a cause, belief, or ideology, often with an intense, passionate, and sometimes fanatical commitment. Here are some key characteristics that typically constitute zealotry:

1. Intense Passion

    Zealots exhibit an extreme level of passion and enthusiasm for their cause, belief, or ideology. This intensity often borders on obsession, with a singular focus on promoting their views.

    (Let's face it, the vast majority of trans activists, like 99.9% of all activists, are extreme in their passion for transgenderism.  Such as a trans woman screaming like a banshee at her server at some restaurant because the server misgendered her.  She should, instead, politely correct the server, and if the misgendering continues leave a humiliating tip.  Servers live on their tips; how they address you during the process is part of the service and should effect their tip.)

2. Uncompromising Stance

    Zealots are often unwilling to compromise or consider alternative perspectives. They hold their beliefs as absolute and unchangeable, rejecting any opposing viewpoints.

    (Our opposition is notoriously unwilling to compromise their perspectives or viewpoints.  But, then, we make it so easy for them to continue to hold the line.  When they say, "you're not a real woman/man," they're equating real with biological.  So, rather than insisting on your validity, simply smile at them and reply, "hence, the term transwoman/transman."  You will never convince them by returning zealotry for zealotry.  You've heard the term, "kill them with kindness."  Let them continue to be assholes.  If we are to be accepted, we need to make ourselves acceptable.)

3. Missionary Zeal

    A zealot's dedication often includes a strong desire to convert others to their cause. They actively seek to spread their beliefs and persuade others to adopt their views, sometimes through aggressive or coercive tactics.

    (Oh, my God, I know this one all too well!  When I was a child, my parents would say things like, "tell them you can't hang out with them if they don't go to church with you."

4. Us vs. Them Mentality

    Zealotry often involves viewing the world in binary terms, with a clear division between "us" (those who share the zealot's beliefs) and "them" (those who oppose or do not share the beliefs). This mentality can lead to hostility and intolerance toward those who are seen as outsiders.

    (Honestly, there's always going to be an "Us vs. Them" point of view.  When it becomes a problem is when members of either side of the argument become hostile and intolerant of members on the other side, such as Republican voters vs. Democrat voters.  Good Lord!  I've seen friends become bitter enemies after finding out that they vote differently from one another.  It's ridiculous!)

5. Extremism

    Zealots may engage in extreme actions or behaviors to further their cause. This can include protests, demonstrations, or even acts of violence, as they believe their cause justifies these measures.

    (Allow me to walk this back, just a bit.  There's nothing more American than peacefully protesting and demonstrating.  The BLM activities during Trump's first presidency, however, were most definitely NOT peaceful.  They were violent and riotous!  Innocent bystanders were brutally murdered at the hands of these extremists.  Yes, some of them were also killed by those who stood opposed to them.  But, they were not innocent and, so, I feel no sense of loss over them.)

6. Blind Faith

    Zealotry often involves a level of blind faith, where the zealot's beliefs are accepted without question and are immune to evidence or rational argument. This can lead to a disregard for facts and a reliance on dogma.

    (Oh, my God... I've been all over this for a long while, now.  Blind faith is tied to one's emotions and, though your emotions are important to take into consideration, they're nowhere near as important as your intelligence.  As I've said in other venues, God meant for your emotions to fulfill your personal life; family, close friends, etc.  In business, politics and social interactions, however, your intelligence should be out in front or you'll very likely find yourself to be compromised.)

7. Rigid Orthodoxy

    Zealots tend to adhere strictly to the doctrines or principles of their cause, with little tolerance for deviation or dissent. Any deviation from the established beliefs is seen as heresy or betrayal.

    Zealotry can be found in various contexts, including religion, politics, social movements, and other areas where individuals hold strong convictions. While passion and dedication to a cause can be positive, zealotry can become harmful when it leads to intolerance, discrimination, or violence.

    (My, my, my...  Whether the issue at hand is religion, politics, the climate... what have you... there seems to be no shortage of zealots.  I have no doubt that my views on various matters seem like heresy to the climate fearmongers, political extremists and religionists, and a betrayal to the majority of LGBTQ+ individuals.  But, most of those people lead with their emotions and, so, the world is in turmoil.  Leading with emotions is a usually foreign concept for me, so all of those people will naturally not be fond of me.  I, in turn, will continue to be unconcerned with their dislike, but I will generally lead with my intelligence and ask that others at least consider the same.)