WALK IN MY SHOES

"The more we listen to those whose experiences and perspectives are unfamiliar, the more we realize what draws us together."

This is a very strong statement. It brings me back to the saying, "before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes." Other individuals experiences and perspectives are important to hear out in order to stay true and committed to your own beliefs. They can even help us to grow stronger in what we believe in or help us to see it from a different angel that can change our thoughts completely. "Don't judge a book by it's cover," is also a good example. In my experience, people are all different and unique in their own special ways. However, if you take the time to look deep enough, you are most likely guaranteed to find something the two of you have in common. Even if it's the smallest little thing, there is something to be found.

The first sentence of chapter nine says, "Even when we build on the foundation of our existing values and knowledge, social involvement helps us enter new worlds." This is completely true because taking the time to get involved teaches us life lessons that we could never find somewhere else. We discover new ideas that are so far outside of our comfort zone just because we took the time to see what else is out there. We cannot expand our vision without taking necessary action. The book states that this only happens when we place ourselves in circumstances that require us to view our efforts and ourselves with new eyes. It is important to silence our own voice in order to find those similarities that connect us with others. We have to listen with an open mind and be willing to change. Yes, this is true. You might not always be right! Strive to understand the world outside of your own.

The story that stood out to me was not the Atheist story, but the Common Air, Common Ground story. People of all different cultures, who hadn't agreed in the past, came together for a common cause. The United Jewish Organization and the Puerto Ricans and Dominicans were all very different people. However, they found a passion and even added to their diversity, in order to take a stand for what they believe in. The health of their children was a top priority for each and every one of them. I also really enjoyed the fishermen story incorporated into it. God is good!

School is a perfect place where I am surrounded by people who hold different beliefs than I do. Even though I jump at any chance to share my faith with people (under permitting circumstances) sometimes you have to put your own opinions aside for the good of everyone. There are plenty of occasions when I spend time with people that have very different ideas, however, I have a solid foundation. Therefore, I know right from wrong. I know what I believe in and what goes against my beliefs.