Why we must Respect the Diverse Differences in Others . . .

By: Richard Zhang
May 1, 2014
4 min read

Why we need to respect the varied differences in others All humans must respect and honor the diversity and varied differences from the ones revolving around him/her. In recent years, due to the significant escalation in terrorism, stereotypes, prejudice, and bias, the majority of the current generation of humanity will find it problematic to accept new ideas, cultures and differences without substantial encouragement. Frequently, one will construct obstacles on their path to the acceptance of differences through their total objection of the knowledge, values and ideas of other’s. Such course of action will certainly hinder the open exchange between hearts, prohibit an enriched mutual understanding while denying one’s utmost respect of others. For humans to bring about peace, freedom and equality to the world, one must not manipulate, accuse or criticize others solely due to their difference(s). Instead, one must hold an open mind for the engagement of different ideas. Such actions will bring forth the feelings of prosperity, tranquility and joy; things that will reign if human’s choose to respect other’s.

Myopic views on diversity are typically indirectly taught during one’s tender years. This is because as we are all products of our own unique upbringings and experiences, one will have opinions poles apart from others on the same topic. Nevertheless, we should treat all the ones we meet with actions showcasing the basic levels of respect and kindness; lending a helping hand while accepting the differences in others.

In order for one to feel comfortable about all the people he/she meets, it will mean for one to learn to accept all humans for who they truly are; regardless of their diversity. As the world gets smaller due to the expansion of the internet and cheaper transportation, one will continuously meet new people that themselves in different languages and cultures. Many sadly, instead of embracing this diversity, choose to isolate their mind when meeting new people/things. Henceforth, they stagnate their knowledge development by misinterpreting color, religion, and race. Although it is understandable and somewhat necessary for one to hold distinctive beliefs, values, and ideas, by the same token, one must respect the differences in others. For me personally, even as I strongly stand by my personal values and ideas, I keep myself open to seeing what others believe and value. It is easy to say that none of us are the same, and we all see the world different from one another.

To allow myself to be fascinated by the distinctive configuration of a person’s traits, family, culture and schooling experiences, I continuously investigate into new things like an explorer. Personally, without this, I would believe for my life to turn into one that is boring and dull. By setting the stage to accepting and respecting the difference in others, I have grown, made new friends, worked new possibilities while keeping myself updated on the trend of global culture. As a result, I have been able to gain more awareness of my personal self while becoming more conspicuous of my personal judgments. If I was to ever slip into a judgmental mindset, I will recall a quote from Shakespeare: “Nothing is good or bad but thinking makes it so.” This not only reminds me that there is no right or wrong way to see/do things, but it also prompts me to summon up the fact that the world is in essence, a neutral place. Thus, I remain open to fresh ways of thinking.

To put it plainly, it is how we respond to the uniqueness in other’s that will considerably mold our character and influence our thinking. Although you may at times feel an overwhelming feeling of need to control others and to allow for the values you hold to be considered most paramount, know that when you do so, others around you may become easily frustrated and angered. However, by interacting and communicating with them, you will be able to easily acquire new knowledge and ideas. Also, you will develop a better understanding of the art of respect, communication, and privacy. If everyone in this world showed the above behavior to all, there would be far more harmony and peace in our world than it does now.

Overall, by demonstrating better understanding and tolerance of others, one will make a more positive contribution to a collective consciousness. To state, humans should follow the model set by a group of assorted trees standing tall in the midst of a darkened forest. Despite the beatings of the wind and the battering taken from weathering, these trees will relentlessly grow side by side like mighty warriors. Our world is currently in a deep need to promote amicable relationships between our communities. You can help progress this change along. The next time you are taking in the sights, be sure to observe the people – the clothes they wear, facial features, color - and learn from it. Only after we clear out our minds and hearts can we open the doorway for healthy interactions and only through acknowledging can we show our thanks for the incredible and rich diversity we have been blessed to experience on Earth. By doing so, we would most certainly eliminate all the tension that has been imbued by clashing ideologies and the people’s inability to accept unique viewpoints of other cultures. I pray that you succeed on your journey to respect the differences of others.

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