“We are waves of the same sea, leaves of the same tree, flowers of the same garden.” ~ Seneca

We are all unified by our shared humanity, regardless of our country, race, ethnicity, gender, or status. Like waves in an ocean, we’re all part of something greater and made of the same substance. 

We are living in a time of great division, with varying opinions and beliefs. This can cause frustration and anger towards one another. In these times it is important to cultivate compassion and understanding. As the Dalai Lama says, “Compassion and tolerance are not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength.” 

Next time we are feeling a sense of division or anger towards another, we can ask ourselves, “what must it be like to be them?” Maybe we would be acting the same way if we were in their circumstance. 

Regardless of what we are going through, on an interpersonal or global level, may we remember that we are all human, and offer patience and understanding to each other.