People need to see that, far from being an obstacle, the world's diversity of languages, religions and traditions is a great treasure, affording us precious opportunities to recognize ourselves in others.
Interpretation
Diversity enriches our lives and helps us find connections with others.
This quote emphasizes the value of cultural diversity, suggesting that different languages, religions, and traditions are not merely obstacles but rather valuable assets that enhance our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. By recognizing the shared humanity in others through their unique backgrounds, we can enrich our own lives and foster deeper connections.
In practice
In a speech about cultural awareness during an international conference.
If you come from Africa with your economic poverty and your cultural riches, and you meet someone like Peter Gabriel or a person from a big record company, and they tell you that what you are doing is marvelous, that makes you feel powerful.
When I'm in Senegal, I can't just sit in isolation making music. People need my help. And the Senegalese people helped create my music. It comes from the country itself.
I think people should know more of Africa in terms of its joie de vivre, its feeling for life. In spite of the images that one knows about Africa - the economic poverty, the corruption - there's a joy to living and a happiness in community, living together, in community life, which may be missing here in America.
The world is a demon. It is a kingdom of which the puny ego is king. Put it away and stand firm.
The misery of man proceeds not from any single crush of overwhelming evil, but from small vexations continually repeated.
The first question which you will ask and which I must try to answer is this; What is the use of climbing Mount Everest? and my answer must at once be, it is no use. There is not the slightest prospect of any gain whatsoever.
The self cannot be self without other selves.
Experience demonstrates that there may be a wages of slavery only a little less galling and crushing in its effects than chattel slavery, and that this slavery of wages must go down with the other.
How can I make difference so that I may bring peace to this world that I love and cherish so much? A name flickers instantly in my mind.
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