As much as we talk about diversity, I find myself liking what I like and coming back to what I like. This includes food, transportation alternatives, business models, style, and even individuals. I would like believe that I am open minded, diversified, and exploring alternatives. In reality, my actions document the fact that there is a relatively short list of things I do, ways I act, and people I hang out with. It is as if I can only see what I can see.
I have come to appreciate the value of diversity. When I do not see it in the moment, I often catch myself on a quest to find what is different. What am I missing? Is there a different way to see, understanding, or doing?
Life is a constant reminder of freedom and the diversity that comes with it.
Our freedom gives us the opportunity, responsibility, and ultimately accountability to choose and then execute the path of our lives. At times, those close to us with the best of intent try to dominate our decision making. The attitude appears to be that diversity is good for others; if you are close to me you need to believe, think, and walk like me.
One of the greatest gift of respect that we can give to another is to recognize, support, and ultimately celebrate the reality that “some of you set sail in big ships; you put to sea to do business in faraway ports,” (Psalm 107.23) while others make quite difference choices.
Recognition is not always the same. On one extreme it can be a critical action, potentially filled with cynicism. At the other extreme, it can be a view filled with wonder, admiration, and curiosity. When one starts with wonder and curiosity, new stories are discovered and everyone is richer for the experience.
Support has an unintended consequence of making everyone involved better than s/he was. Even when we disagree with certain actions or beliefs found in the other, with our celebration and support we gift the best of our lives to theirs.
