Celebrating Harmony And Diversity In Waltham

“Come together” is one of my favorite songs by the Beatles. And upon reading the article “Interfaith youth initiative opening minds and hearts at Brandeis” on Wicked Local, which took place a couple weeks ago at , naturally the Beatles came to mind.

Coming together is an easy way to describe what I see happening in Waltham.

There’s a wonderful polyphony here. Many different races, large and small businesses, and a wealth of religious views sit side by side in this little city. This is the harmony that makes the Watch City tick! No joke.  

In a bigger picture, I feel this is the essence of what can heal the current problems and fear that is gripping the rest of the country. Although tensions often rise from differences, I am trusting our country will find ways to cooperate as we move forward. One way I think this is possible comes from people learning to trust others and recognizing being different from your neighbors can bring unexpected opportunities for friendship and learning.

Despite how the media can magnify our differences, the “Interfaith Youth Initiative” at Brandeis University illustrates how spirituality and an appreciation of differing views can help bridge gaps that might otherwise continue to grow into caverns of fear.

For me, I’ve found that the more I see others as my brothers and sisters rather than as mere strangers — or labeling people as “different” — I’ve found a greater sense of peace when meeting people who have vastly different backgrounds. What we have in common is a desire for good, happiness and well-being.

Maybe our city can be a trendsetter in helping our country find ways to learn from our differences and bridge our divides and while celebrating all that we have in common.

What do you think?