Individuality Is Overrated

Friedrich von Schiller said, "If you want to study yourself--look into the hearts of other people. If you want to study other people--look into your own heart." Deepak says "we're all the same being masquerading in different disguises." Let's just cut is out with the individuality! I'm not suggesting we become one big entity, but that we treat one another with more mercy. We're all going through a rough time. So just a word about keeping perspective. You're not in this alone. And they aren't either...

Finding Time to Do Nothing

Let's face it: We have a lot of stuff to do. Making time to do nothing is just about the hardest task imaginable. And yet, I think it is an important task that everyone needs to pencil into their schedule regularly.

I'm not talking about wasting time. I'm talking about sitting down outside and being quiet and still for a few minutes, taking time to allow the breeze and sunlght to quiet your mind and emotions. We needn't go so far as to call this process meditation. Let's just say that 10 minutes spent in this endeavor is a very worthwhile investment.

Be brave! Stop for a moment and do nothing. It may just change your life!

Why You Should Care

The issue of sexual orientation is one of personal importance to a great number of children. Researchers and social scientist suggest that 1 to 3 of every 10 students is either gay or lesbian, or has an immediate family member who is. Thus, 3 to 9 kids in every class of 30 has had some direct experience with the issues of homosexuality and homophobia.

Schools have an obligation to support and enhance the self-esteem of all students regardless of their sexual orientation. They are also a logical place to provide accurate information. The negative effects of homophobia on students in educational environments is well documented; suicide, dropping out of school, isolation, violence, homelessness, HIV/AIDS, and depression, to name a few.

Perhaps the most compelling reason for schools to address sexual orientation straightforwardly is that young people are asking. Silence on these issues communicates values just as loudly as responding would. The values that should be taught are ones that encompass respect for one another and caring one another's feelings, regardless of differences.