One of Abu Dhabi’s lingering introductions to my life is dates. Dates of many different varieties and countries of origin. Emirati, Saudi, Jordan, and Palestine are just the beginning. High sugar and diabetic friendly as well as high protein and fresh. There are endless choices and one can sample everyone one if it is helpful. With tastings, conversations, and reflections on the different types of dates behind me, I have come to appreciate the nuances as well as the role dates play in social interactions at different times of the day.
I recently shopped for a fresh supply, sampling a fresh range to zero in on the best fit for my preferences. Along the way, I gained a fresh appreciation of the fruit and its role in life. As I listened to the salesman, I also found myself hearing whispers and lessons that were hard to ignore. As I start today with dates in front of me, the lessons replay themselves.
Attributes are universal. It is easy to imagine one variety of date looking at another, seeing what makes them different versus what is common. This observation goes way beyond dates. I catch myself looking at the differences between others in my community. There is an alternative within my reach. I can start with everything that binds us together. I can understand the shared gifts which transcend our different viewpoints. In context, old words take on a fresh perspective; “Whatever is written in these Scriptures is not what God says about others but to us to whom these Scriptures were addressed in the first place! And it’s clear enough, isn’t it, that we’re sinners, every one of us, in the same sinking boat with everybody else?” (Romans 3.19)
Differences are important but not in the way we always imagine. With dates, when and how they are consumed shape the recommended variety. In the diversity, dates have a role to play that goes beyond a sweet indulgence. Understanding and accepting the differences opens a door to choosing what best fits a given community, place, and time.
Enjoy.
