Discussions

 
We as a human race are all basically the same. We do not wish harm to those we care about or ourselves. So why do some of us wish it upon those who we simply might misunderstand or because they differ from our own point of view. My wish is that we could all just realize we all seek the same thing, happiness. Sometimes bringing other people happiness regardless of their point of view, is as simple as a friendly smile, or holding a door open. So why is it so common that just because people might assume that someone is different, be it because of race, religion, opinion, or whatever, that so many of us feel the need to harm them. Maybe not always in a physical sense. But I find that emotional harm is just as much an inhumane act.  
We are all part of the same human race  
and should treat each other as though we are all sisters and brothers. Yes there will still be disagreements and arguments because of differences. Even sisters and brothers fight. But because we’re different in some ways does not make one person better than another. It does not mean that one is right and the other wrong. It just means we are each unique, and that we have not all had the same experiences as each other.  
I differ in some of my views from many people, but I do not wish them harm. I do not wish harm even on the people who dislike. I respect their opinion though it may differ from my own, for the simple reason that I do not have a right to impose my will on someone else just because they don’t see things my way.  
I also don’t think a system of majority rule is the best way. We are each individuals, and should be treated as such. Though it is comforting to know there are other people with the same values, we shouldn’t simply discard those who don’t fit in the majority. We all have something to offer. By listening to someone of a different point of view, we may learn something we didn’t know. We may not always like what we’ve learned, but we should try to be objective. The more knowledge we have the better we can understand each other. Maybe some of us might change our positions on topics. Other times we may not. Just try to remember that when sharing your opinion, the person listening may not agree. If they do not, ask them what their position on the topic is and LISTEN.  
No matter how silly, foolish, wrong, or different, it may seem from your own point of view, remember that they have not had all the same experiences as you and vice versa, and you might sound silly and foolish to them.  
If we all made a commitment everyday to improve the happiness of one complete stranger regardless of outward appearance, in one year you would have made a difference in 365 lives. Improving someone’s happiness doesn’t have to be very big and we can all do it. When standing in line you could strike up a friendly conversation with someone. If you see someone walking on the street you can give a friendly smile. You don’t have to limit yourself to one person a day either.  
The greatest thing one can do for another is show compassion. Unfortunately most of us only show compassion to people we know, or only at times of great despair.  
In closing I hope that people start a change towards unifying us as the human race regardless of who we are, and I think we could all live by the simple law of “DO NO HARM”.