CELEBRATE DIVERSITY
We like to be with “our own kind.” We even have some reluctance (if not open prejudice) against some others—often entire groups. Yet we also know that there are some who are close to us genetically or naturally who we are not that fond of. The cousin who is bombastic, the arrogant uncle, the needy in-law, or that not-too-distant family member who never gets her act together. Then there is the funny co-worker of the other group. We get along great and over the years he’s become like extended family.
So the thought comes up periodically that I’d like to shake that pocket of prejudice I hold on to. I’m not sure how to do it, but I know diversity is good. Diversity is profitable, it drives innovation, its importance is even shown to us in nature. Biodiversity is needed to sustain life. In a cycle of life, insects feed on plants; birds eat the insects; larger animals—including ourselves—eat chickens and other birds. As each of the animals dies and decomposes, it feeds plants. In the wild at a watering hole the tall giraffes detect any predators are coming. The animals that are low to the ground see movement in the bush of any possible attacker. They need and warn each other.
In the economy diversity brings innovation, progress, and a better life for all of us. When an organization brings together a group to brainstorm for creativity, the more diverse the participants, the more likely new, useful, and popular ideas will come. There is power in collective intelligence. The mix can include women, men, and those whose sexuality is nonbinary, younger and older people, those with different levels of education, the differently-abled, those from urban and rural backgrounds, assorted language speakers, varied socio-economic levels, religions, ethnicities, personalities, and others.
Our societies can create more opportunities for those who have been marginalized. I cannot relegate all responsibility to others. There are ways for me to play my part. First, watching my thoughts makes a difference to keep me open and friendly. I can learn about other cultures, beliefs, and ethnicities. There is always something to appreciate in them and something that can enrich my life. I can celebrate differences instead of dismissing or trying to just tolerate them. Being less judgmental will make me a better person.
