from one extreme to another

[sailortats]

Tonight was a night of contrasts. I attended a classical string ensemble performance. Not exactly my cuppa tea but my housemate was debuting with this group on the cello and so I went to support him. Was there early as I rode with the housemate. Dressed in my Stewart Hunting ancient, white shirt, blue striped tie, blue vest and dark blue hose and dress sporran.
One of the women in the group came up to me before the performance and complimented me on my outfit and then asked, because I looked so nice, if I would present the flowers to the conductoress at the end of the performance.
Immediately after the performance I joined others at the refreshment table when these 2 older men (60+) came up to me. "We wanta know what that get-up your wearing is all about. Looks kinda scottish to me." It is scottish I said. "Why ya wearing something like that?" Because I have scottish blood and this is my clan kilt. "Is that it?" Ya that's it (loud enough so that a couple of people turned to look) "Ya well", and they walked away.
I've said it before and will say it again, it takes all kinds.

[Riverkilt]

I can think of some ruder responses for such rude intrusions - but trusting that you were there and chose the best response for the situation. Struggling with someone in San Francisco caring how someone else dresses...hippie times are history I guess - back to conformity....sad.

It does take all kinds - sadly, some of them wanna get in our face....

[Andy Ternay]

I understand the questions people ask. I even welcome them because they are a great conversation starter and help break the ice many times.

But I really don't understand the hostility (which I have rarely experienced personally) towards kilts. It makes no sense to me, seems completely unnecessary and downright rude. Seems to me that some people have a really deep need to compel - or attempt to compel - others to follow their standards. They are not above attempting to shame others to achieve this goal. Personally I think they make fools of themselves when they try to do so; especially if their target stands tall and rejects their busybody intrusion.

[Mickey]

Well handled, sailor! Sucks that these people exist, and it's hard to not lose your crap on them in the name of class. Nicely done

[xdepuydt]

The second part of your story is sad of course, but I particularly like the first part. Normally it is a woman who offers the flowers to the conductor. The person of the group was very creative and spontaneous by asking you to help her to give a good natured twist to the usual flower offering ceremony.

[Chas]

I think you handled it well. Ignorance is acceptable, after all we all can't know everything. But to revel in one's ignorance is not acceptable.

Regards

Chas

[dea3369]

Cool story, unfortunate ending. You just have to accept the fact that some are immensely threatened by others' (i.e., your) confidence. Grin and bear it.

On second thought, maybe ... Grin and Bare It.