So my first blog is inspired by my current working environment.A few days ago orthodox Jews descended upon the accommodation I currently serve as a receptionist. I, being the religious fanatic (interest wise rather than practice wise) was rather excited about this. My colleagues, with exception to one, were the complete opposite. I didn't expect much excitement from them, but perhaps a little interest and most importantly a little respect. Instead, the complaints piled in. "They're so pretentious, arrogant, rude…" The preconceptions coming out of their mouths were actually unbelievable.
Religion and issues surrounding it have always been on the front line of the media battle. I wonder… is the media to blame for such preconceptions faced by so many different religious factions. The current battles faced in Israel, currently divided in two, only demonstrates the hardships that religions face. Notably, in some instances it is their historical documents causing the issue, and yet the majority are quite happy to have such a division. The extremists are those who cause the issues, and so do they cause the preconceptions? I can be sure of one thing, it is very wrong to tarnish a group with the same brush. Perhaps it is simply a generation thing? Admittedly, most of my colleagues are double my age; however, the single person who did not have a bad word to say is of this age also.
Judaism is enriched with cultural history and a sense of belonging and their arrogance is misinterpreted from their sense of pride. They do complain a lot, but their standards are high, our societies standards are not so and those who are simply British (rather than religious and British) are renowned for living with their situation rather than complaining.
Over the last few days I have laughed with orthodox Jewish men, I’ve spoken to well educated girls and argued reasonably with the women. I can’t really say that about my fellow breed of unreligious persons. The men leer, the children are uncontrollable and the women are insufferable.
So I say to anyone who sides with my colleagues, look at your own society before you judge another’s.
[No offence is meant by the image displayed. Currently, Jews do win.]
