Tolerance encompasses various aspects of human behavior related to society. The ability to accept and respect the beliefs, opinions, practices or behaviors from others that are different from our own even though we may disagree or find them challenging is tolerance. In today's multicultural and diverse world with it's mixed bag of dualism both spiritually, sexually, and politically a practice of tolerance in our everyday lives helps us bring about a peaceful coexistence in our pluralistic societies and may help us better understand each other.
If I were going to teach a course on tolerance here are some of the key points I'd try to touch on:
1. Respect for differences: Tolerance involves the diversity that exists among individuals and groups. It means understanding the differences in backgrounds, cultures, groups religious values and perspectives and respecting their right to hold and express those differences.
2. Open-Mindedness: Tolerance requires an open mind and willingness to listen without immediately dismissing other's viewpoints or opinions. It involves being receptive to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences even though they might challenge your own.
3. Being Non-Judgmental: Tolerance involves refraining from making harsh judgements or stereotypes about individuals based on their differences. It involves avoiding prejudice, discrimination, or bias and recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every person.
4. Freedom of Expression: Allowing others to express their ideas, thoughts and beliefs freely as long as it does not promote hate speak, incite violence, or hurt others.
5. Peaceful Coexistence: By accepting and respecting the differences in others, conflicts can be minimized, and a climate of harmony, understanding, and cooperation can be promoted.
6. Education and Awareness: Education is the key to raising awareness and the diversity of it's benefits. Teaching children at an early age can help to build tolerance by exposing children to different cultures, ideas, religions, and perspectives and bring future societies together building a more tolerant future.
It's important to note that tolerance does not imply agreement or endorsement of all beliefs or behaviors, it simply means recognizing the right of others to hold and express their own views even if we may disagree with them. Tolerance is a fundamental value that contributes to the building of inclusive and compassionate societies, fostering respect, empathy, and peaceful coexistence.
Peace and Balance,
John
