Another story about a sports writer in a new job

If you were stuck next someone wearing one of those shirts, why not take that opportunity to engage with them rather than try to get away from them? Wearing a t-shirt like that is ignorant, so if there’s a chance to change their view, take it.

 

I like that approach, and have tried it. I’d like to try it more, but sometimes I prefer to not engage with someone who is likely to be obnoxious and belligerent when I have to sit next to them on a four-hour flight.

I have friends who think the majority of journalists are dishonest scum. They think I’m the outlier. I’ve tried for years to prove otherwise but no amount of conversation has changed that.

 

At this point, there’s no convincing anyone of anything. The battle lines have hardened.

 

I welcome those occasions and have been presented with a few opportunities along these lines. I acknowledge and understand a person's cries of "fake news," but I also point out all the good journalism that exists, notably from the company for which I work. These discussions always result in making a new acquaintance and having a meaningful conversation, and they always end with a handshake. Just my experiences.