Dear Friend,
As Americans we should be familiar with the phrase of E pluribus unum - "Out of many, one”. The meaning of the thirteen-letter phrase which became the American motto, originates from the concept that out of the union of the original Thirteen Colonies emerged a new single nation.
This powerful message of unity, reflects on just one of the many great american accomplishments of unifying many into one united states, of treating everyone equally. That essentially the idea of America is that we are all the same, created equally and endowed by our Creator with inalienable rights. Rights that no one can take away, that all differences should be put aside so that we can all become one. E pluribus unum - "Out of many, one”.
Judaism's focus on unity is not only unique, it is also revolutionary, in the way that it defines unity as diverse multitudes unifying in their diversity.
Not getting rid of the differences. Rather celebrating the unity of differences.
While these may sound similar, they are actually very different with very different results.
Allow me to explain what I mean.
Unity can be accomplished in two ways:
The first method is based on the ideology that it is our differences that separate us and therefore oppose unity. So if only we can all be the same, we would all get along. This then suggests the importance of ridding individuals and society of any and all differences so that everyone and everything can live in peace and harmony.
The second method stems from the ideology of fundamental and unconditional love, respect and care for everyone regardless of any differences. So when I meet someone that is different, this does not interfere with our mutual respect, for if I really respect someone, I also respect their ability and right to think, even if it is different from the way I think.
This is also congruent with our faith that one G-d (the ultimate unity) created a diverse world so that we can unite and recognize the origins of creation. Dissolving diversity is subverting the purpose of creation. G-d does not want us to merge into one being, one idea or one entity. G-d wants diversity to get along and live as one, not become one. Becoming one means there is no diversity left, but living as one allows for diversity.
This method celebrates differences and the diversity of people and ideas while maintaining respect and love for all despite the differences. Because it takes for granted that not our differences divide us, rather it is our lack of true, unconditional respect and care for each other that divides us. For if we would really care for each other, being different would not matter and would not get in the way of respect and love.
This second method is much more realistic and effective, for it does not require anyone to change, it allows people to be true to their ideas and it allows people to adapt and change if they want to, all while maintaining a society of peace, respect and love at all times regardless of any disagreements.
Perhaps by our desire for universal respect for all using the first method, we have focused too much on dissolving differences and thus missed the main point that respect should not be dependent on anything, but that everyone deserves to be respected because they are created in G-ds image, period and end of statement. That unity begins with the fundamental understanding that we are all created equal and endowed by our creator….
Once we have this established, we can confidently go out into the world of ideas and differences and appreciate the diversity that exists. We can talk, discuss and even argue, while maintaining real friendships and respect. A world where an argument does not result in anything other than an increased respect for each other and a stronger friendship and relationship.
Americans desperately need to get along and unite, but talk is cheap. We must begin by practicing respect, care and love, humility and selflessness, even and especially of those who are completely different from us.
Consider that in a family of multiple children, each sibling, even if of the same parents, are all different. They grow, develop and learn at their own pace, have diverse interests and ideas, hobbies and talents. But it is the parents who recognize and celebrate the diversity of their children and encourage the unique interests of each child, that are successful in raising a healthy, strong and united family.
If parents would insist that all their kids be the same, they would rob their children of their true unique potential and the family would not enjoy a strong relationship or be united.
A real G-dly, peaceful and united world is firstly to love and respect, then this allows us to celebrate difference, encourage diversity and discover how there can be many, and those many can still be one. E pluribus unum - "Out of many, one”.
The first step in changing the world is making positive change in our own lives. Today is the best day to start!!
Good Shabbos
Sincerely,
Rabbi Mendel & Elke Zaltzman
