Embracing Our Differences 2010

A Herald-Tribune Media Group Newspaper in Education Publication embracing our differences 7
“Near + Far”
by Meredith Roy,
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
This painting symbolizes our unity as people on the same planet – even
though there may be vast distances and cultural differences that separate us.
It can be easy to forget that the world extends beyond our familiar neighborhoods.
Our cultural and personal variations make this Earth exciting and
vibrant. From the small African villages to the busy North American cities,
there are opportunities to learn and grow all the time – we just need to
embrace them.
The Terrifying Extent of Intolerance
ART & SOUL Draw a picture of a
During World War II, a movement spread through Europe that was based on the principles of
intolerance and bigotry. It became known as the Holocaust, and millions of people from various
minority groups died during its reign.
About 200,000 of these persecuted souls were sent to a camp called Terezin, located in Prague,
according to the SHOAH Foundation. Many of them, thousand of which were children, died there.
The butterfly has become a lasting symbol for innocence lost, and it is often associated with the
unfortunate young victims at Terezin.
Now take a look at Meredith Roy’s painting, “Near + Far,” which shows a young African boy playing
with a Caucasian child. Their geographic worlds may seem different, but in the end, they are both
children who want to be happy and free. What if all of the children of the world were treated equally?
Sources: www.shoaheducation.org and www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org
Giving Thanks
Gratitude is defined as “the quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful.”
What are you grateful for? When you read the latest news headlines and learn
about current world events, think about how different your life is compared to
someone who lives in Uganda, for example. Sift through the pages of the Herald-
Tribune and find the pictures that relate to your own life. Maybe there’s a photo
of a family walking along the shore of Siesta Key that reminds you of your own,
or a shot of a glowing sunset over Sarasota Bay that you once saw from the public
beach. Compile a list of all the things you recognize from your city’s landmarks,
and write down why you’re fortunate to live in such a beautiful place. Share your
entries with your classmates.
l
( )
“The only real
difference among
individuals is
the willingness
to reach out.”
– Paige Levanti,
Age 12, Sarasota
butterfly in honor of the children of Terezin.
Write a few sentences about what the
butterfly represents and why all of the
earth’s children deserve to a chance to fly.