For Example – the quality of Inclusiveness
By acceptance and celebration of the rich diversity of ethnicities, lifestyles, backgrounds, ages and spiritual/wisdom traditions in every community, we cooperate in helping others and making a difference for good in the world.
From Cindy Siemers
I am an immigrant and a minority in the United States. I grew up in a traditional Chinese family where we practiced Buddhism. However, I married into a “white American” family (as my African American friends would say) where my husband and his family are protestant Christians.
As you can imagine, with different cultural and religious backgrounds, there are bound to be some challenges along the way in our marriage, not to mention, we also grew to have different political affiliations. It was not easy to raise two children under this kind of environment, but both of us were determined to make the marriage work.
Throughout the years, little by little, with the mindset of respect and acceptance, we allowed each other’s voice to be heard. Although there were small and big disagreements, after heated debates and discussions, we often resolved to agree to disagree. Instead of focusing on the differences, we strove to focus on building common ground where love could prevail. Needless to say, our children grew up very differently, each with their own ideas of the world. The older they are, the more they can hold their own ground and add even more diversity to our family.
Although it might have been easier to have the same opinions or views, in our diverse family we have learned that when we actually listen to each other with objectivity and respect, it always enhances our understanding of the issues and helps to enlarge our worldview. Even though in the end, there is still disagreement, at least, we have considered the other side of the issue.
I think this is what inclusiveness is all about. It is not merely to keep the same company with people who have similar views so that you could advance similar agendas. It is also to be a loving presence in the midst of different voices and opinions, sometimes directly opposite yours. It is being able to hold your own truth and at the same time, respect other’s.
I will admit that the differences in our family have posed some challenges in our life. But by being open and committed to each other, we have grown to celebrate and accept our differences. I know that each of us will take what we have learned in our family and contribute to the world in our own unique way.
