Reflection
Diversity is a universal principle which has been at work in the universe since the very beginning of creation. This diversity exists both between the species and within each species and is constantly being created anew by the Creative Spirit of God. Each simple particle is different from every other, becoming ever more complex while still remaining distinct. Now, we know each galaxy is different from every other galaxy; each star different from every other star and each planet different from every other planet. No two polar bears, hawks or ants are alike, each is unique. We human beings, gifted with the ability to reflect back on ourselves and our place in creation are beginning to understand the splendor of the rich diversity of life. Our hope is that our ability to learn from the past is teaching us that God’s creation flourishes through cooperation rather than competition.
Prayer
Creator God, help me to learn from all Creation.
Action
Acknowledge, respect and foster the rich diversity of others. Wonder at the marvelous diversity that exists on this earth. Respect and learn from the difference among people.
Suggested Reading
Now there are a variety of gifts but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the same Spirit for the common good.
1 Corinthians 12
Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these.…
Matthew 6:28-29
It is time for parents to teach young people early on that in diversity there is beauty and there is strength.
Maya Angelou
Christian, Jew, Muslim, shaman, Zoroastrian, stone, ground, mountain, river, each has a secret way of being with the mystery, unique and not to be judged.
Rumi
He who is different from me does not impoverish me – he enriches me. Our unity is constituted in something higher than ourselves – in Man… For no man seeks to hear his own echo, or to find his reflection in the glass.
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
At bottom every man knows well enough that he is a unique being, only once on this earth; and by no extraordinary chance will such a marvelously picturesque piece of diversity in unity as he is, ever be put together a second time.
Friedrich Nietzsche
If we cannot now end our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity.
John F. Kennedy
We inhabit a universe that is characterized by diversity.
Desmond Tutu
The one process now going on that will take millions of years to correct is the loss of genetic and species diversity by the destruction of natural habitats. This is the folly our descendants are least likely to forgive us.
E. O. Wilson
Look within yourself. After self-reflection, one’s eyes may open and see things in an honest light, and view people and things with appreciation for all their natural beauty.
Tao Principle