Diversity: something of a contrast, another opinion, or a different state of mind. Diversity is different strengths and weaknesses, different opinions, and different ideas. Without diversity, our entire planet would be a boring place. No unique cultures, no trendy clothing stores, no special restaurants, no interesting books written or movies released, and no special relationships or unique job opportunities. Diversity is our natural ambitions, hopes, and dreams.
Our community is its own miniature melting pot. We are historic, exceptional, and distinctive, yet in many ways contemporary, cohesive, lively, and entertaining. We are filled with different people with individual opinions and distinct aspirations; we are all snowflakes.
How can we make our community stronger? Do we focus on the concept diversity itself – our differences? I believe we should focus instead on the bigger picture, the people, the places, and the items associated with our diverse beliefs. I believe if we are celebrating diversity, we should celebrate the woman who ran for her life from the Soviet Union to find hope and freedom in America. We should honor the men and women brave enough to fight for our country. We should applaud the man who traveled into third world countries to heal sick and broken people. Those are examples of difference. Diversity is not just the color of your skin or the language you speak. Diversity is your opinions, your beliefs, and your choices. We shouldn’t celebrate diversity if it means we celebrate our differences. Why not celebrate our commonalities and our unities? Instead of finding reasons to celebrate our differences, we should be finding ways to come together as a community, to bond as friends and neighbors with various opinions but common interests.
Daily celebrations of diversity take away from the true significance of whom we are and where we came from. Yes, I am a proud American. I am proud to express my joys and sorrows, my