Paraphrasing of ideas from The Thrive Realm written by Nidhi Khanna, Accredited Counsellor

  • Embrace the journey, not the destination – Understand that adapting to each other’s cultures and religions is a continuous journey, not a one-time adjustment. Stay curious and open. 
  • Listen more, assume less – Instead of assuming, listen deeply. Take time to hear each other’s perspective, especially when it comes to cultural norms and values. 
  • Find common values – Focus on our shared values rather than differences. Let us cultivate common ground where both cultures and religious beliefs can meet, with mutual respect, love and care. 
  • Celebrate, don’t compete – rather than seeing cultural practices and faith traditions as competing, celebrate them. Embrace the beauty in blending traditions, whether through food, language, customs or rituals. 
  • Give time and space – Let us remember that understanding and compromise take time. Let us be patient with each other and allow space for growth and adaptation in our relationships. 
  • Support each other’s growth – As members of this community, let us support each other in growing, supporting and understanding our own faith-tradition. Creating a space where our cultures and traditions can thrive equally. 
  • Ask for help if needed – When things get tough, seeking external support can help us find clarity and connection so that we can navigate challenges and strengthen communication. 
  • May each of us be instruments of peace to be guided by the wisdom of those whose footsteps we have been called to follow. Help us to build bridges between people of all faiths and beliefs withing our communities so that all of us can attain a peaceful and fruitful co-existence. 

Anita Davine

Interfaith Network, Executive Committee Member