Sensitive Subject

As I've stated many times here and elsewhere, I proudly hail from Appalachia. I was born in Lee County, Kentucky and raised on a farm about 10 miles from the county seat of Beattyville (population of less than 1,000). As the subject of elitism has been the most recent topic of our podcast, I find myself claiming my heritage maybe even more than usual. 

Is that because I am just that proud of my roots or is there something else? Is there part of me that is afraid that others from my home area might think that I consider myself now to be somehow above or better than them? There are few things that I would hate more than if it turned out that they think I now number myself among the elites.

Sure, I live now in one of the nice suburbs in the second largest city in Kentucky. I have more than a couple of college degrees and, as I write this, I'm listening to classical music, for heaven's sake! I have to admit that had I known this version of me when I was a kid, I'd be at least a bit suspicious that I may have gotten a little "above my raisin'" as the saying goes.

What I'm trying to focus on is that the type of elitism that I fear is not born of what one does, has, or has accomplished but is the type that announces that somehow these sorts of things separate one person from and even elevate them above those who have not done similar things. What my mom taught me, is reinforced by my faith, and remains an ideal of our national motto is that all are created and valued equally. These other trappings are fine and even useful but true human value is that which is born in us all - the spark of the divine - beautifully and wonderfully made!