Tie-dyed fabric

   Sometimes leaders are placed in positions for which they are ill-prepared. Depending on how situations are handled on the global stage, tensions can escalate and the results can be not only frightening but costly in terms of human lives and resources. All humans are to be treasured, not only for individual talents but simply because they are.

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  27 August, 2018                                                                                                           

   White supremacist groups and their proponents have begun to complain about United States' "changing demographic." They are disgruntled because white people are becoming outnumbered by persons of color. Their core belief seems to be that whites should "dominate." Others of us maintain that American ideals are not about color, but decency toward all.

   Racists would have the populace believe that "foreigners" are destroying the fabric of American life. Is it not much more likely that these layers enrich United States? "Assimilation" should not mean having to deny one's heritage; just incorporate it into belonging.

   Have you ever been dining in public, especially at an establishment offering cuisine from a nationality different than your own? At such times, one might hear a language, other than what one speaks. There is no need to mumble that local vernacular should be spoken: it is simply quicker and easier to convey a direction in one's native language. The disgruntled murmurers should just enjoy the dining experience offered and not get their [individual and/or collective] panties in a wad. Of course, this doesn't just happen in restaurants but whenever or wherever it occurs, one need not get one's knickers in a twist. Here's an idea: if you have a burning desire to know what someone is talking about, learn a different language. It will expand horizons. Might also come in handy when doing crossword puzzles.

   One of my favorite memes on this topic is a picture of crayons in several shades: all are labeled "flesh." I remember "flesh-toned" band-aids too ... and thinking, "But everyone isn't pinkish-tan." Trust me: contrary to opinion of white-supremacists, there is nothing inherently superior about having pale skin. In regions that get a great deal of sun, it might even prove detrimental.

   Human bodies are beautiful and should be celebrated: not only in all their myriad forms, but whatever beautiful color. It is the soul - that indefinable essence, which matters. Seek serenity, find wholeness and joy, release the hurts and injustices that have been done you, so you can live a healthy and satisfying life. Those in your community need not look like you, any more than you need look like them. Embrace your own beauty, as well as recognizing that others are beautiful too: just maybe in different ways. Diversity keeps life interesting and should be embraced, not feared.

Blessed be - And wrap yourself in flamboyantly tie-dyed fabric.