Today I attended a seminar with my 2nd grade class that taught them methods of dealing with bullies in school. The assembly lasted about an hour and when it ended, I felt such a great deal of love for the kids, for my co-workers, and for the presenters. The main theme was that all of us are different – which actually makes us all the same.
It unites us.
The presenter of the seminar asked for a few volunteers from our grades K-4 audience and I was pleasantly surprised when I saw how many kids raised their hands… brave enough to get up on stage in front of their peers and stand up to a bully.
I realized that this is the very thing that I love to do. I love to talk to people. I love to write – even if my ideas aren’t widely accepted. I love to teach, to talk and express myself. I know that I’m vulnerable… but I use my vulnerability to relate to those around me. I like to engage with people and collaborate ideas together. I love to speak and to listen.
I use my writing as a way to express myself… whether it’s a public blog, an article in a local or national magazine or even just my gratitude journal. I thrive when I’m communicating. I love to inspire others to look at things differently… and to inspire others to feel the connection that we all share as humans.
I was humbled by the presentation that my class and I watched today and the intention – to unite our school – was clear and successful. I was touched when I saw all of these little people comfortable enough to stand up for equality in themselves and their peers, and even to a complete stranger.
It is scientifically proven that the fear of public speaking is one of the greatest fears in the world. Think about it though… people fear being vulnerable and open and honest. Communication and acceptance of our differences is the very thing that helps remedy this fear.
We all come from very different lives, and our perspectives lead us to become the unique individual that we are.
When we embrace those differences, we see that truly, we are all the same. When we share our vulnerabilities, we see that they are our greatest gifts.
Finally, we understand that it will always be our voices that connect us.
Natural Peace Living 