The Oneness Family School community has many beautiful and meaningful traditions. They celebrate “The Festival of Lights — to honor the light and essence of spiritual paths throughout the ages.” In past years, they have taken students on field trips to churches, synagogues, temples and other sacred places during this season.
One of the many ways they have impressed me is their choice to not only teach diversity and inclusiveness, but to demonstrate and model it throughout their programming. It’s a vital part of what it means to educate a child to become a global citizen. It is what’s missing in the education of most adults.
“Happy Holidays” is a commonly used greeting for all traditions. And it’s easy to say. It doesn’t require us to consider what it may mean to someone who is very different from ourselves.
But attempting to understand, and yes, even appreciate our differences, takes a much bigger and deeper commitment.
When we look back on the discord and disappointments of our past year, and as we move forward – maybe we too should work toward celebrating the light in all its varied forms. Even if we don’t agree with each other, now is the time to re-educate ourselves and be willing to listen to a different perspective. Now is the time to recalibrate our hearts and honor the Light in each other.
Enjoy the season!
