But we all have similar thoughts, feelings, wants and dreams.  We all need to be appreciated for who we are.  And we need to feel connected, like we belong.
 

Sometimes it is difficult to get beyond our differences.  We are uncomfortable with them, maybe even afraid of them, so we tease or taunt, or worse, act superior to others who are different from us.  This sets up division, barriers, prejudices and bad feelings that can lead to mistrust, even hatred.

As a part of learning how to respect ourselves and others, we need to be willing to knock down these artificial and destructive barriers.  We need to reach out beyond our differences and find common ground.  It can be as simple as initiating pleasant conversation, playing a game or having lunch with someone different from you.  Having an open mind and heart can help you learn more about yourself and expand your circle of friends.

Think about one thing you can do in the next week to reach out respectfully to someone different from you, write it down as a goal and really try to implement it.

Copyright 2009 Susanne Slay-Westbrook