This world has become a world with little tolerance. Our lack of respect for others’ opinions and beliefs has created a chaotic and painful separation between human beings. The result of this division is sadness, suffering, hatred, and despair. A world without tolerance is a world without peace. And a world without peace is a threat to our very existence.
What has made us believe that our beliefs are better than others’?
What has made us think that we are the bearers of absolute truth?
What has made us think we have the right to condemn others for thinking differently from us?
How is it possible that we commit horrendous acts in the name of our beliefs, using them as an excuse for violence and hatred?
The problem is that many of us believe we possess the ultimate truth. We think our ideas are right and everyone else’s are wrong. This belief gives us a false sense of superiority and permission to judge, punish, and exclude others simply for thinking differently. This mindset has not only divided nations, but also families, friendships, and relationships. Many connections have been destroyed because of intolerance among the people involved.
“What is tolerance? It is the consequence of humanity. We are all formed of frailty and error; let us pardon reciprocally each other’s folly – that is the first law of nature.” – Voltaire
We often see ourselves as tolerant, and we expect tolerance from others. But in reality, we are usually tolerant only when people agree with us. True tolerance is not about agreement. It is about understanding.
Tolerance does not mean sharing the same opinions. It means respecting different perspectives and recognizing that others see the world through their own experiences.
Freedom means having the right to think, believe, and form opinions without being forced or manipulated. Diversity of thought is what makes our world rich and meaningful. Without it, freedom would disappear, and we would become prisoners of rigid systems and ideologies. History has shown us where that leads.
“Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one’s own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.” – John F. Kennedy
Sports, religion, politics, money, and many other topics reveal how little tolerance we sometimes have. People argue, insult, and even harm each other simply because they do not agree.
We hear phrases like:
“My team is better than yours.”
“My beliefs are superior.”
“My country is better.”
“My party is right.”
“I’m smarter than you.”
“I know more than you.”
Do you recognize them? I do. I’ve said them. I’ve heard them. We all fall into this trap at times. We believe we are right. We believe others are wrong. And we want them to change to satisfy our ego. But this attitude does not build — it destroys.
There is no greater ignorance than believing we are the owners of absolute truth. It is healthy to discuss ideas. It is good to exchange perspectives. What is not healthy is refusing to accept that others think differently. That is the essence of freedom: being able to believe what we choose without needing approval.
Each person sees life through their own lens. Each person carries their own story. When we understand this, we reduce unnecessary suffering, hatred, and conflict. Tolerance protects our relationships, our communities, and our world.
Let us learn to listen more.
To judge less.
To respect differences.
To value diversity.
Let us be more tolerant of others’ opinions and beliefs — and choose peace over division!