The way you answer this question may well determine, your
philosophy on life and whether you see the best or the worst in others. There is no shortage of problems in today’s world but finding solutions or even paths that might lead to solutions is much more difficult. Some people only look for scapegoats or someone to blame instead of coming up with creative solutions to the problems.
What if you view the world in a different way? What if there is no them? What if there is only us? Does that cause you to think differently, to act differently? Instead of just saying, “I’ll take care of my family and the rest of you are on your own” suppose you
redefine “family” to include everyone? Where does that lead us?
When I studied philosophy, my favorite philosopher was John Stuart Mill who was famous for saying that a person’s actions should be governed by doing what promotes the greatest good for the greatest number of people.
In my work with individuals with disabilities I have seen how the us versus them outlook impacts their lives. I have seen many people staring, looking the other way in discomfort and judging them. If the world could just accept people for who they are and make them feel welcome, it would be a better place.
Recently I was at the park with a child with Autism who is nine years old. He was in a pram. He does not need the pram for mobility but to feel comfortable and safe in a crowded, busy setting. People were staring wondering why a big boy was in a carriage. They first assumed he was not able to walk. When we arrived at the park, a more open and comfortable setting, he got out of the pram and began to run around. They began to whisper to each other. They did not know how to include someone who they saw as different from them. A smile goes a long way in making someone feel welcome. Rather than making him feel alone, just a smile would let him know he is valued and included. A smile can make someone’s day. How does it make you feel when people smile at you? 🙂
ASD: Promises To Keep 