Tolerance
The above video poem features a message about Tolerance. This Tolerance video is meant to inspire thought. A quote by Rene Dubos fits perfectly; Human diversity makes tolerance more than a virtue; it makes it a requirement for survival. Our human condition, as frail as it is, changes by the day. Our constant will to push society forward and become better people helps us prevent history from repeating itself. Advancing this world is only accomplished when each of us makes a contribution with our actions, and by doing so, we grow the human condition.
Tolerance, by Barbara Tremblay Cipak
Hold my hand
then judge me
Or better
Feel my sameness,
Look me in the eye
then tell me I don’t matter
Or better
See I am you,
Sit at my dinner table
Sharing food and conversation
then tell me I’m not worthy
Or better
Understand my hunger is like yours,
Take a walk with me
then hate where I live
Or better
Understand my plight,
Watch my children play
and tell me they are expendable
Or better
Love them as your own,
As I hold your hand
Look in your eyes
Eat at your table
Walk with you
Understand your plight
And watch your children play,
Perhaps the dictionary definition of Tolerance says it best; “an objective, fair, and permissive attitude toward those whose opinions, practices, race, religion, nationality, that are different from our own; freedom from bigotry.”
Can we look at each other with eyes of acceptance, when our beliefs and customs differ so profoundly. The answer is, we’re trying. Our actions define how tolerant we are, and taking the time to do demonstrate our understanding of each other, even it’s a small action, pushes the world in a productive direction. As Ghandi said, “be the change..”
What we all share is, this “Earth” – a great place to find common ground.
by Barbara Tremblay Cipak-Drageda.com
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