What Can We Do About Difference and Tolerance?

"We may be different, but we don't have to be alone." - Forest Rain

Dear World,

Is it truly written in our D.N.A that we must act as we do? For those of you that accept that us humans are animals it may not be exactly hard to imagine that we would inherit instincts similar to them, such as a fear or dislike of difference. This behavior is omnipresent in everything in our history from the earliest tribes, to the wars fought for friends, to the racism of yesterday and the bullies of today. Is it perhaps unfair to shift the blame onto nature for such a decisive flaw?

There is no shame in fearing the different so long as we can truly come to appreciate it, if not merely tolerate it with kindness I believe. Our world is so torn by being unique yet adhering to unspoken Norms. Perhaps I am biased since I am a person of Quirkiness both in personality and in mentality; but I believe it's our differences that make us stronger.

But where is the line drawn, when is difference too much? My thoughts are quite simple on that matter. If what you do or say does not hurt anyone else directly or indirectly as a result of intent or malice... you yourself are just fine the way you are. The question should not be is it okay to do this, is it my right to say that... but rather is it right to... does anyone truly gain or is suffering the primary outcome.

Of course this doesn't much touch on the internet's ever so preconceived notions of criticism, hatred, autism, cancer and racism... Often true criticism is ignored in favour of harsh hatred... and when true criticism is given, it is deflected and admonished by scapegoat of being hatred.

Hatred is too strong a feeling to waste on anything and anyone you don't like... instead of trying to change people to what you deem is right, Look first at the self, then at the others.

This is not to say you should not stand up if you see inaction with others mistakes... but the steadfast rule should always be... are they hurting themselves or others and never by your own judgement, but by the judgement of the people who are being harmed.

There are of course many exceptions and side notes to these thoughts... none of which could fully be explored in a mere blog post... but I just want to bring about unity not through equality, but egalitarian mindsets, and equity. I want you to accept you for you.

Believe in yourself,

Mjax Majoran