I have learned, @johntkd, that during these times of trials, you must stand tall and hold your ground. No matter the situation. Stand firmly what you believe in, no matter what the outcome may be. I am saying this as I have been stomped on, trampled on, and beaten down (with words) by others, but they did not keep me away. I just kept coming back. And when they saw that they could not keep me away, this made them angrier. It was not intended to make anyone angry, but why should I be treated differently because of cultural diversities when I treat EVERYONE the same as I am treated?

My lesson is this: When someone is mean to me, I try to over look it. When it begins to be a problem, I try to take myself out of that situation. If it persists, then I am right there in front of their face being nice to those who are nice to me and ignoring those who are not. Am I mean for doing this? No. But if I have nothing nice to say to someone, I do not speak to that person unless the time comes and it is necessary.

Excellent post, my friend!