Time to read: 56 seconds
I don't know what it is. My son created it in ceramics.
My son has managed, against everything you see and read, to create true friendships across significant differences. He has liberal friends who hunt and shoot guns, conservative friends who don't believe in evolution, friends who are atheists, and friends who have found Jesus. They hang out every day. And not only that, they talk (maybe banter is a better word as they are teen boys) about their differences openly and still play video games together every night.
In an increasingly polarized world where families are torn apart by politics and religion, I'm fascinated by how this group of 17-year-old boys is accomplishing something many adults can't. I asked him about it and he said, "they're kind." They see beyond differences to the complexity of each person - their talent in theater, sense of humor, and ability to destroy zombies in the nightly video game sessions. They are also able to hold their convictions without bowing to the crowd. I'm amazed and heartened.
I'm sharing a resource today to help us adults engage in effective conversation across differences, particularly in dealing with racism. The idea that love and connection can be part of uncomfortable situations is nothing short of revolutionary. If we see each other as kind and connected, wow…what would be possible?
So, here is a Ted Talk by Smith professor Loretta J. Ross about "Calling In" rather than "Calling Out." I'm pretty sure a group of teen boys isn't this graceful in their conversations yet. I hope you like it.
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