Accepting Each Other. Diversity is an Open Heart, Yo!

From the time we are born we learn how important it is to be surrounded by those who have an innate understanding of us. This understanding links us to what we need. Our parents, or guardians understand when we are hungry, need to be cleaned, or just want love and attention. We quickly learn understanding each other is all-important. We grow from it and develop close bonds because of it. 
 

Perhaps this is why human nature can easily fall into conflict when faced with someone who seems quite different – whether their appearance, speech, beliefs, or actions place them in a diverse light. If someone is different enough then perhaps they are a type of threat to one's usual way of life. Is this feeling of potential threat at the base of what makes it so difficult for some people to be accepting of others?

The digital age has provided us a means of becoming better at coming together in positive ways. The internet has tied most of the world together. We can see and better adapt to differences in ourselves and others, even welcome changes as we continue to advance with technology.

Yet, we can still hit moments of strife caused by a lack of (or willingness) to understand. “He dyes his hair multiple colors. He must be weird!” or “She has three kids and one of them has such a different skin color. She must not be able to keep a stable relationship!” These are just a couple of examples I have come across. 
 

People can make up their minds too quickly and before understanding another perspective. It's true, none of us are perfect. We all judge at some point. It is a survival tactic to try to perceive and determine how to act. However, we should not allow our need of understanding to overcome our willingness to understand. 
 

Diversity brings in new solutions and new avenues to explore. Remember how we grow by understanding and caring for each other in the beginning of our lives? We continue learning and developing throughout our lives. Together. We make the world an interesting place.Together. All of us.
 

The key is not shutting someone down in an instant. Those multiple hair colors he is sporting – perhaps the colors have meaning, or perhaps he just likes wearing them. It is normal. Nature does it as well. Think mallard ducks, cardinals, or even peacocks (yes, all bird examples because I love birds). Guys can appreciate color, yo! Also, just because a woman has children of differing skin tones does not automatically make her terrible at maintaining a relationship. For one thing, it takes two in order to maintain a relationship and two people can go their separate ways for many reasons. In addition, genetics have the power to mold twins to have differing skin tones. 
 

Those who judge do not have the truth so much as an opinion that could very well be inaccurate. Let's live! So long as someone's not harming others, or their self, there is no issue. If you feel awkward about accepting someone of a different faith than yourself, then simply remember who Jesus was said to have spent so much of his time with. 
 

We live peacefully in understanding each other if we teach by living through example. Not by force. Not by turning away. Don't try to conform someone to your ideals. Instead, attempt to see the world through their eyes. We each have a different beginning and so each develop feelings and limits that can differ. No one person is the same, so don't isolate yourself by pushing others away. Try to give respect and make an effort to truly understand. 
 

Treat others how you wish to be treated.