I am able to separate the man from the mean streak that inhabited his old timey ideas of prejudice. To grow up Italian in America during the thirties is a hateful place for a young boy can put a chip on ones shoulder for life.

He basked in the glory of honoring his culture in the form of singing Italian opera with two other Tenors at the Washington Opera Ball.
He said it was the highlight of his life.

I could have been friends with him just as I could enjoy the company of many of the flagrant gun nuts here.

Until you separate people from issues you will not know true empathy.
It is not a requirement but it is a human achievement better than straight hate.

Like yourself everyone gets damaged in some way. Sometimes in helpful ways and sometimes not.