A quote by Audre Lorde, “It is
not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept,
and celebrate those differences,” may best sum up the problem with an
individual’s view of diversity. We can look at the world around us and see judgment
of others. But, why? Why are we so intolerant of those that are different from
us?
The simplistic answer is fear.
The complicated answer is a lack of self-awareness. Recently, I interviewed
C.J. Wilson. The interview was for another media outlet, but C.J. Wilson is a
modern example of an uncelebrated difference, an intolerant difference. For
readers who are unaware of who C.J. Wilson is, he is a professional athlete who
adheres to the Straight Edge lifestyle. Straight Edge is mainly about clean
living -- no alcohol, tobacco or caffeine. Our dear C.J. has received more than
his fair share of slack simply by being different.
As a professional athlete,
doesn’t this lifestyle make for the perfect role model? In a profession filled
with bad behavior, of course it does. So why would this young man be called to
the carpet for promoting a healthy and positive lifestyle? Because this
lifestyle, forces us to look at ourselves, makes us question our own decisions
and ultimately draws us to the conclusion that perhaps … we could do better for
ourselves. C.J. is one very simple example of intolerance. If we step back and
take time to get to know ourselves and begin to feel secure within whom we are,
we are then free to enjoy and celebrate the differences of others.
©2013 Journey To Self, All rights
reserved.
No comments:
Post a Comment