It is important to find common ground. To discover where our histories, opinions, and beliefs are similar. As human beings, our problems tend to be relatable. That is why our films, music, and literature tend to have resembling themes. Our similarities allow us to imagine what it would be like in another’s shoes and empathize with them.
However, our similarities are not the only things that connect us. If everyone were identical in their thoughts, looks, and behaviors, an individual’s value would be diminished. Yet why is sameness what we focus on as a society? Why is it so important for us to agree with those closest to us, to look a certain way, or live life the “correct” way? Why is respectfully acknowledging differences rare and almost taboo?
Our differences are what make us individual. What if instead of trying to be similar, we celebrated those differences. When someone is different than you, they are giving you an opportunity to learn about a different worldview; just because it is different than yours does not make it wrong.
CaRynn Harris 