Beauty in Diversity

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Image Source: Markus Spiske

When I was younger, I was only aware of common colours: red, blue, green, yellow, etc. But as I grew up, I encountered a much larger variety of colours that I had no idea even existed: cyan, magenta, turquoise, azure, fuchsia, etc. It is only once we learn about these new colours that our appreciation for the full spectrum of colour really grows.

I have noticed how most post-apocalyptic stories (that aim to portray life after everything has fallen apart) are full of bland colours... The landscape is a dusty brown, the clothes are washed-out greys and the lighting is dull.

In contrast, stories that describe paradise are often filled with lush green fields, clear blue oceans, yellow sandy beaches and bright sunny days.

All we have to do to observe this phenomenon is to look at the impact of a rainbow. Often during rainy, overcast days, the mood of those around us matches the dreary colours of the day. But when the skies clear and the multicoloured rainbow is revealed, people are fascinated and filled with joy at the beautiful sight.

Just like a painting that blends a wide variety of colours together is beautiful, I believe that there is beauty when a wide variety of people come together in their uniqueness.

The world thrives in diversity.

I don't believe that the apostle Paul was only referring to spiritual gifts when he says that "we all have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us" (Romans 12:6, NIV). Rather, each individual person is uniquely created in the image of God. When people are forced to look, behave or speak in a certain way, their true self is diminished and we don't get to fully experience the unique gifts that they have been blessed with.

Rather than trying to get everyone to be uniform, we should celebrate that just like colours, people are unique. Rather than trying to separate everyone into their own groups, perhaps we could benefit from experiencing the wonder that is created when everyone brings their unique colours to the table to create a bright, beautifully blended masterpiece.
"As the appearance of the rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day, so was the appearance of the surrounding radiance."

- Ezekial 1:28 (NASV)

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