Are you a Southern Ambassador? One of the definitions of an ambassador is an unofficial representative. If, in your conversation or items you have around you, you publicly identify yourself as as Southerner, then you are a Southern Ambassador. Are you a good one? Do you present a positive image of The South? or do you feed the negative stereotypes of Southerners as portrayed in the media?
In fact, we are all ambassadors for what we identify with. Just as Christians are ambassadors for Christ (both good and bad), Southerners are ambassadors for The South. To that end, I consider it my duty to portray Southerners in a positive light. I try to always dress a bit better than the occasion calls for, be clean shaved and a fresh haircut, maintain good posture, remember and use good manners, and all the other things that would leave someone with a favorable impression. We represent not only ourselves, but that which we identify ourselves with – in this case, The South.
I try to be as presentable as possible where ever I go, and never forget my manners, no matter the situation. I don claim the southern title and I have a distaste for the redneck life style. If I can rub off on the rest off on just one person or at least impress for another, then I have done my duty as a southerner.
Cotton Brashaw 17
Having been raised in Virginia and guided by a Southern gentlemen, my father, I do try to leave a favorable impression. I will not claim to be perfect for as Gen. Lee said “The education of man is not complete until he dies.” I continue to use the terms sir and ma’am, hold the door for ladies and the elders, and stay away from profanity although I do have my moments of weakness at times. My wife and I keep our home neat and clean and have our family pictures displayed as we are very proud of our heritage. As gentlemen we have an obligation to not only represent the South but all of those that paved the road before us in order for this great cause not to perish.
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