Look Beyond The Shell

It's 2011, and perhaps it's about time we look beyond our own social mores, and learn to accept and help one another rather than building barriers from one another. If we were to want the best for others, we should  look as much as possible beyond the shells of color, working or non-working body parts, gender, etc., and see the person. Perhaps then we would start to be more patient with all people, more compassionate and helpful.

Sometimes, people just don't know any better, but they have good hearts and good intentions. They may not say things exactly as you like or expect, but they do mean well and want the best for you and others, regardless. They just don't know how to do that.

While living in Europe, I struggled with communicating with the people of the country hosting us. I had only a mild hearing loss at that time, however, but beside that, I did not know the language. It was foreign. I purchased a small English/German dictionary and made a list of words to facilitate everyday conversation. I discovered if I tried to make an effort, many of them were not only patient, but spoke enough English to teach me a few things about themselves. By showing my interest, and, yes, my ignorance of their ways, and allowing them to see my vulnerability, they opened up themselves and became my friends. They helped and guided me along my way and I made many new and interesting friends and neighbors. 

I think it's time we looked beyond the shells of others and work on building bridges instead of  barriers  to separate us and divide us.