The Problems with Division

The Problems with Division

We live in a world nowadays where it is seen as normal or even necessary to divide ourselves. Every day, we are split into groups, sectioned by our characteristics (some that we cannot control), and judged for our differences. Human beings are not meant to be isolated. We are incredibly social creatures, made with the purpose of interacting with others, especially those that are incredibly different from ourselves.

Many of our wiser family members will tell us to experience the world, and all the wonders it has to offer. How can we experience this amazing earth if we are locked up in the jail cell of our own prejudices and stereotypes? There is a clear contrast between being different and being divided. We are all different in some way. Part of experiencing the world is to spread out, ignoring one's prejudices or the stereotypes of modern society. One cannot truly “see the world” if they automatically condemn something for its differences. The idea of experiencing the world and all it has to offer is to open yourself up to new places, experiences, and, especially, people.

Something that school doesn’t do an effective job of teaching us is that we are all different. We shouldn’t be focusing on dividing ourselves, for no two people are truly ever the same. The acceptance of what we do not, and may never understand is what truly enables us to work together to create a better world. In a society of likes and dislikes, we must learn to find the middle ground. Life is not about liking what you understand and disliking what you do not understand, what is different. Life is about experiencing different things, different people. Only then will we ever see the true beauty of the world.

• James S., 11th Grade