RobGoll.

My apologies for allowing my anger to manifest in name calling. Doesn't happen often but you touched a nerve. I should know better. Yes, I am Jewish as is my family and many of my friends. I am also human, just like you.

I don't hate all Muslims but admittingly I am not fond of those who put me in a box because I'm Jewish...because they can't "transcend" if you will. I sat next to a Muslim family this past Sunday at an event. I had a wonderful conversation with them and enjoyed their company.

I am not corrupt...I make mistakes but also make a point to learn from them and try to make things right if I harm someone.

I do not embrace war as a solution but believe in self-defense. If you have a target on me and it comes down to one of us walking away, you better believe it's gonna be hard for you to take me down, I expect the same from all of humanity.

Now for greed: I am probably greedier than some but much less than others. I can sleep at night knowing that what I possess is much less at the expense of others than the majority of those who have (but alas I have probably unwittingly bought things that were made by children in a sweatshop). Maybe that's why I have less material wealth than the overwhelming gentile community I live in but I am comfortable and surrounded by people who care about me and whom I love; I would take that over a Mercedes Benz any day and I thank G-d for it.

Finally, political posturing: Since the “Great Jewish Conspiracy” hasn't come knocking on my door for advice I can't really speak to it but I hazard a guess that if the posturing by the “Jewish Lobby” is significantly more active than that of big business, the Conservative Christians, etc. then it is done so as a reaction to a long and rough history of being demonized and slaughtered as well as to real threats from real people who are unable to "transcend".

I write about myself here but simultaneously (I am certain) for a percentage of Jews that is close to the percentage of gentiles who feel the same way. If not then at least for many (not all) Jews I know.

I am not sure what the word "transcend" means to you as it may mean different things to different people but if acceptance has anything to do with it then a good deal of the Jewish People I know embrace it. We accept and expect the same-as people. Tolerance for prejudice on the other hand has worn thin. We may have somewhat of an understanding of its etiology but certainly don’t have to entertain it.

If I offer some insight and help change your mind about Jewish people then I am glad. If not then my initial instinct was correct and though I apologize for my words I do not for my feelings; I will take that up internally and with a higher power.

My sincere apologies to those who found my earlier words offensive. I hope this long winded response paints me and the people who are Jewish in a better light as what I say is truly what I feel.

RobGoll-I’m not leaving my name as I see no sense in it. I’ve made my peace. Say and feel what you will. I hope it’s positive and informed.

Good day