When asked to come up with one of the most inclusive places in the United States, Portland, Oregon immediately comes to mind. And not just because an entire sketch comedy show was based upon its unique community.
Still, the thing about generalizations is that they tend to leave people out.
We may think of Portland as this bastion of free-trade artisanal coffee, vegan clothing, and love is love, but the community is more diverse, and divisive, than that.
And when people feel left behind, they often lash out.
While I tend to be the type to wear headphones and avoid eye contact, I do understand that for some people it's normal to have a short conversation while in line for the cashier.
In a Facebook post, Matt set the stage by explaining that he was wearing his favorite Portland Trail Blazers Pride Sweatshirt, which was noticed by an older man in line behind him in the line.
"'Why are you wearing that rainbow shirt? Are you some sort of fa****?'" Matt describes him as asking, completely out of the blue.
I mean, how do you even respond to something like that?
He replied, "Well sir, I am a gay man yes. And I wear this to show people that I am not only proud of myself and my community, but also the organization I work for who supports Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.”
"Have fun in hell homo, hope you’re proud of the choice you decided to make," was his response. According to Matt, the man continued to mutter homophobic stuff under his breath, but Matt chose to ignore him.
And instead of enjoying the schadenfreude, Matt returned to the cashier and paid for the man's few items.
Clearly taken aback, the man demanded to know why he would do such a thing.
"Well sir," he said, "unlike my sexuality, which is not a choice...I’m choosing to be a nice person."
The point about choice is very important here, since it really is something a lot of people still don't seem to understand.
"I hope you find it in your heart to understand your words can be hurtful, but I’m choosing to see you for the person you are, and I wanted to help you."
Rather, the man didn't respond at all and Matt simply walked away. He had rendered the man speechless with his words and act of generosity.
Many were simply full of thanks and delight over Matt's act. Most admitted that they didn't think that they could have been such a class act if faced with the same situation.
"Wow just wow Matt Dorio!" commented one woman, "You are a fine young man with core values and a kind heart. You took a negative person and their negative opinions and acted with kindness in spite of it. Aggie Dorio I know you are proud of your amazing son. And many other are too! A fine example of human kindness. The world needs more Matts!"
Which is hardly surprising when you consider how rare true kindness is these days.
And it doesn't hurt that Matt has the most infectious smile I've ever scene.
"Take the high road people. Be the better person and show people that hate is never the answer. Be brave, stand up and kill them with kindness."
You said it, Matt!
