A good friend of mine, whom I have known for over 40 years, has shut me out of her life over an FB post. Background: I am aware that indigenous people are “not her favourite people” and that she “doesn’t approve of their lifestyle”. In fact, we have had several personal discussions about this over a period of years. My take is that she would do well to learn about the history of first nations in Canada (and the US) and maybe try to understand the situation in a different light… become a little more enlightened if you will. Unfortunately, she remains very close-minded and will not budge from her point of view. Back to FB… A few weeks ago she posted this message – “I dont care if your black, white, bisexual, gay, lesbian, short, tall, fat, skinny, rich or poor. If you’re nice to me, i’ll be nice to you. Simple as that!” I responded with the comment, “Does that include indigenous people?” and huge offence was taken… How dare I criticize her on FB!, that is personal!, you’re a racist yourself, etc. My take was that she posted it on social media where comments and opinions are expected and, because I feel so strongly about the topic I didn’t think twice about calling her on the posting. I did let it get out of hand when I wrote, “You may not like “Indians” but I don’t like hypocrites”. I deleted my posts and told her to do the same if she felt so offended. I did and she didn’t. I cannot bring myself to apologize although I am sorry she feels offended. That being said, this is not how I want to leave our friendship and I don’t know how to peacefully and lovingly find closure. I would welcome comments, suggestions, enlightenment. Did I behave badly?