Tuesday, 19 February 2013

Unity in Diversity

I have always identified deeply with the analogy of us people as representing different parts of the body.  Some of us are hidden away like lungs, others are big toes, and some are hands or eyes.  We have a wonderful assortment of gifts that together bring wholeness as people and communities.   It is so important to value and preserve the many different gifts and perspectives that we as individuals bring to one another.

Wise story telling son and I had a fascinating day at the aquarium.  I was struck afresh by the amazing diversity of sea creatures.  So many colours, shapes and unique places in the community of our larger world. Such incredible creativity and diversity that speak to me of God's creative design and attention to detail.
We also need to preserve the whole breadth of creation.  All day I was reminded of the need for the gifts of my new son-to-be  as he is dedicated to learn and grow in the whole area of preserving and treasuring creation.

Thoughts of new son reminded me that within our family we also have significant and ever- changing diversity.   In recognition of this diversity we make different choices for our different children.  We may choose a different school situation for one of our girls.  Her gifts and needs are different from the others, even from her own twin.  I do not want my children to be all the same.  I rejoice in those differences and want to encourage them in their own gifts.  I am excited about the new and special gifts that our new son already brings to us all.

In our ever-growing and evolving diversity, may we hold on to the unity of love and care and gentle kindness, appreciating one another ever-more and growing in the range and beauty and function of our differences!

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