By Shellie Miller-Farrugia
There are so many things to love about our community. The weather, the activities, and the lack of paralyzing traffic…it’s a great place to live! One of the things that I find most intriguing is very often one of the most polarizing. It is the diversity that makes our cities unique. In the not too distant past, Scott and I discussed moving away with our children. Our son piped up that he would miss the mix of cultures that we have all become used to. I’d never really thought about it…and felt badly that I may have taken something so unique for granted. Many families that we know in other parts of the US do not have close friends who observe different religions, come from other parts of the world or dress in traditional garb.
My opinion is that, all too often, people close themselves off to amazing opportunities for learning, sharing and finding common ground. Many are ignorant about the “differences” in others, and often don’t take the time to understand that this new potential friend may have many of the same traits. Sharing meals and family histories with strangers that became friends through a multitude of uncanny circumstances has given me a refreshing outlook and new hope in my belief that each one of us can find something in common with just about anyone we’ve never met yet.
Because you celebrate Hanukkah and I celebrate Christmas shouldn’t put a wall between us. Let’s talk about traditions! My popcorn stringing and your latke making are things we can do together as we explore and expand our friendship. What is this holiday, Kwanza? Can you tell me which of the traditions are most meaningful to you and when, in your family history, you began celebrating this way?
When she was young, my daughter asked me about a woman wearing a hijab as we shopped at a food store. I encouraged her to inquire about it and the result was a great conversation, a time of learning and a new friend who doesn’t celebrate Hanukkah or Christmas, but has traditions, celebrations and special family time just like the rest of us.
I received a call one day on my business line. A lovely English accent inquired about working with me, so we made a date to meet. When I went to her home for tea, what a beautiful surprise to be greeted by a very dark woman in traditional African garb! This lovely native of Ghana and I soon became fast friends… sharing the commonality of children, business, committed marriages and our love of the community. When I reflect on that chance encounter, I feel a bit sad for the people I know who would shy away from an opportunity to make a friend who is so different, and yet so much the same.
This year, let’s resolve to celebrate everything in a way that shows acceptance and appreciation for the beliefs of others. My way is one that I’m comfortable with…as yours is for you. I’d like to know what parts of each other’s celebrations we can enjoy together without letting the differences divide us.