What was anticipated

So, I've finally came across someone that simply despises me; not for who I am but from where I come from. I have to say it has taken me by surprise, it's not exactly someone you'd expect. I'm perplexed, surprised, astonished, bewildered, anything you could possibly think of. I mean I would never categorize a whole population based on stereotypes.  I've only tied to be nice and talk, yet I've been denied and bashed every time I've came in contact with the person.

This is really puzzling to be honest, I've always viewed myself as an open minded individual; where I put prejudices and stereotypes behind me to truly embrace an individual. So, when I come across someone so ignorant as to only follow the stereotypes then it puzzles me how one could live your life. To me only the uneducated make irrational decisions about other without meeting someone. I would never hate all Iranians or North Koreans; sure we have differences but almost always is because of the media bias. If you aren't willing to get to know someone because of where they are from then I have deep sympathy for you.

This is a situation that I have expected to come across; did I know how I would react, no I didn't. How have I reacted? I've maintained my sense of pride and compassion,. I won't stoop to the level that some of us have and throw hatred out there. I will leave my arms open in hope that one day they will see that we aren't all the way TV portrays us. In reality everyone should have a chance, different opinions, ideas, religions, cultures, should be embraced not hated. We are all people, here for the same purpose.

What my government does does now reflect who I am as a person, if you can't accept that fact and only see me for what America does then I'm sorry for you. If some how you have been done wrong by the U.S.A. then I apologize; remember it wasn't me, I didn't do it. Don't hate me for what my country did. If you want to hate me, hate me for what I've done as an individual . That is the only fair way, we aren't all perfect nor should someone ever expect us to be. We are humans prone to make mistakes, what differentiates us from others is how we react.

This may be my first experience, I doubt it will be my last. We aren't exactly the most beloved country in the world, but everyone should separate government and the citizens. We all deserve fair chances and that is all I'm asking for, a fair chance. If I've wronged you in away, then tell me. I didn't come here to anger individuals, I've came here to embrace the cultures and mold myself into a better person.

I don't want to be the stereotype, I'm not who you see on the TV shows. I came here to break the stereotype that was given to me. I'm not a stupid American, I'm intelligent, driven, hardworking and here to make a difference. If you stereotype us all you miss out on a generation that is accepting of others open to change and willing to make a difference in the world. To me that is foolish; we aren't your enemy I never did anything to you why punish someone for something they have no control over.

My words of wisdom:
Be who you want to be, don't hesitate, don't second guess, we live once take, advantage of every opportunity you have and give everyone a chance. You'd be surprised by the people you meet and where they are from, don't let stereotypes cloud your judgement of a whole society. You don't just miss out on all those wonderful people and the culture they are willing to share with you, but also the lessons you could learn. Life is a learning experience, not a challenge; embrace it and roll with the punches, you'd be surprised by what you discover.