Committed Conversations

After everyone on the interspiritual panel had arrived, I began to notice the many differences of all of the participants. Panelists ranged not only in age, but in gender, nationality, and religion. I found it incredible that among so many differences, everyone could share one common goal of compassion.

In fact, it was rather inspiring to see them all forget about their differences, and how their religions may differ slightly. In stead of speaking with undertones of superiority and indifference, the youth and spiritual leaders joined in harmony to convey one message.

Through the voices of Desmond Tutu, The Dalai Lama and the youth panelists; so bravely speaking their minds, I heard striking similarities in their goals. From one side of the world to another, we can unite and in the strength of others, and begin to foster our own seeds of compassion. By instilling this idea in the youth, they will grow to spread the idea throughout their families; and so the process continues. This message was supported during many of the questions asked. When the panelists were asked how they became so passionate about love and compassion, an overwhelming number accredited their parents, or those who took part in their upbringing. Because of this trend, it only makes sense to inspire the youth in order to inspire the generations to come.

As said by the Dalai Lama, “Love and compassion are not luxuries, they are necessities”

-Ashton Whited, Bellevue High School