A Passover Message from Katie Gaffin

A desire for unity comes naturally to all of us and yet can be the hardest thing to achieve. The drive to create unity can forge great bonds or sever relationships entirely based on its interpretation. Some believe in a unity of ideas, that to work together and get along we all must share the same view of the world. Others believe that “our way is the right way and everyone else can get on board or be left behind”. While this creates a unity of smaller groups, what does that do for the larger community? How are we to leave a better world for those who come after us if we ignore everyone who thinks differently? If we accuse and belittle those who disagree rather than listening and understanding as to why people think differently? I must clarify that by “listening and understanding” I do not mean accepting hateful, prejudiced, or bigoted ideas that unjustly disenfranchise people.

There is no place for hate when creating a unified community, but there is a place for differing ideas and beliefs. We will never achieve a utopia where everyone shares the exact same opinions and that’s a good thing. Compliance and contentment are the biggest barriers to meaningful change, and our differing perspectives are what keep those barriers at bay. People coming together to discuss their ideas openly is how we unite to achieve a better community. We will never all think exactly the same, but coming to the table with an open mind and without prejudice will allow us to build a better and more united community for ourselves and all the generations to come.

Katie Gaffin is Events and Public Relations Coordinator for the Atlanta Jewish Times.

Get The AJT Newsletter by email and never miss our top stories Free Sign Up