How to see beyond differences?

In bible, Matthew, Chapter 5 Verse 43 – 44 stated that, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

This is one of the important teachings by Jesus Christ, to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Jesus is challenging his listeners to love not only their friends and neighbours but also their enemies and those who mistreat them. It is the way how we can reflect the love and grace of God. This teaching emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, compassion, and grace in the life.

In our life, we always meet someone who may be different from us or even who may have harmed us in some way. Maybe someone hurt you verbally, physically. Can we forgive them? Maybe we have different ideas for the school picnic. Can we respect each other? Honestly speaking, it is not easy to demonstrate acceptance and inclusiveness. The most important key is to see beyond our differences. How to see beyond differences? Here are some tips:

1. Showing Empathy
Try to put yourself in another person’s shoes and understand their perspective. This can help you appreciate their experiences and see things from their point of view.

2. Looking for Commonalities

Instead of focusing on differences, try to find commonalities between yourself and others. This can help you build connections and understand each other better.

3. Active Listening

Try to listen to what others have to say without judgement or interruption. It allows you some more time to digest others’ ideas.

4. Educate yourself

There are always more their one solution to a problem. You can learn more about different knowledges, cultures and experience. So, you can understand more about the diversity.

By practicing these strategies, you can understand and appreciate people who are different from you. Hopefully, when we show acceptance and inclusiveness to others, we are following the bible principle of treating others with love and respect, just as we would want to be treated ourselves.

Mr Chui HK
24 February 2023