You say you want to promote understanding and respect among global citizens, but understanding and respect begins at home.

Mary Beth is a recent college graduate with a degree in social work. She wants to change the world, one life at a time. Her goal is to be a school social worker in her hometown school district.

I confess to snickering and full-out judging when she told me. Mary Beth comes from one of the most affluent areas in the country – not exactly a territory where the word “needy” comes to mind. Yet Mary Beth helped me to shed my snobby pre-conceived notions and convinced me that rich people have problems too.

To help me truly understand the challenges of people living in my own backyard, I put together a short list of books, films and music to expand my horizons:

- Tales of a Fourth-Grade Nothing, book by Judy Blume
- Changes, music by 2pac
- Away From Her, film by Sarah Polley

I resolve to do my homework with an open mind and open heart. With exposure to the angst, and even anger, of people unlike myself, I’m confident my prayers will have new meaning."

Similar, Yet Different

A thousand lives, like doors;
bolted shut, ajar, or wide open;
swing doors that don't fasten;
glass panels; mortised doors;
Barred ones of self-made prisons.

A pathway leads to each.

We can choose to walk along these alone;
or to ask for help when we falter.
In the course of life we meet those who dither,
waiting for our shoulder to lean on.
Let's help them limp their way home.

"WHAT HAS HELPED YOU TO UNDERSTAND
THOSE DIFFERENT FROM YOURSELF?"