[Blueflag]

It helps to be from the South to understand what a put down that really is.

[CatherineofAragon]

Occasionally it’s a put down. But most of the time, it’s meant sincerely.

I say “bless her/his/its heart” regarding kids, animals, and nice adults, LOL.

[oh8eleven]

It helps to be from the South to understand what a put down that really is.
Yeah, it helps to have the inside dope to know what's being said.
Marines say "Semper Fi" to each other as a sign of respect. But back in WWII it was "Semper Fi Mac" and had a whooole different meaning.

[maine yankee]

I spent many years in the south.

I now live in Maine.

I stopped using the phrase because it’s no fun if they don’t know you’re insulting them.

[A Formerly Proud Canadian]

I want to ensure that I have the context correct. Here is the background. The new Premier of Ontario, Kathleen Wynne, who is a lesbian, is planning to introduce curriculum in Ontario schools which would have students learning about “gender identity” in grade 3 and anal intercourse in grade 7.

Would it be the correct and genteel Southern way to then say, “Well, bless her heart! Premier Wynne is introducing a new, perverted education curriculum to public schools in Ontario.”?

If so, I'll have to remember this for future meetings with liberals that I may have. Actually, this reminds me of the 'Church Lady' character on the old SNL, "Isn't that special!"

[houeto]

It helps to be from the South to understand what a put down that really is.

Around these parts "How Niice...!" is far worse. If you get it with that deadpan stare, you know you've just been slapped!