Lisa Behan

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How to savour difference

I really struggle to understand why people fear those who are different to them. Where is their curiosity? Where is their sense of wonder? Because it is wonderful to learn about a different way of living, a different way of thinking, a different way of working, a different way of playing, a different way of communicating.

This week I watched Canadian poet Shane Koyczan speak about growing up being bullied and then turning into a bully. He finished by reciting his poignant poem To this day. It beautifully expresses why we should revel in our differences, an encouragement to get your freak on. With that though comes the call to society to be more accepting to not expect everyone to fit the same mould. We can all do our bit by expressing admiration for those who are out there; in the way they dress, in how they think, in what they do or what they hope for.