John Kitsco

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It is said we often change our behavior when we better understand our fellow man. Singer-songwriter Billy Joel
had a song - Only the Good die young, yet for example in
China when someone dies the age might be exaggerated
because of the belief that only the bad die young.
The Chinese have great respect for the elderly. For their
age and for their wisdom. Yet the subject of death is quite taboo.

Most of us know that the buddhists believe in reincarnation.
And someone jokingly said to me recently -"Whats your name
monkey...?" But then, what we know we sometimes know we
don't know.

More and more we notice the differences within our world and
more especially within our cities. And we must either learn and
accept these differences or fail to earn the respect of those we
are different from. And it would be these many differences that
make the world interesting. Customs. Traditions. The burning
of sweetgrass among some of the native people, or in the
Hindu faith cremation is believed to help the soul find a new
body. The importance of the Koran to the Muslim sects. Or
the wearing of the Turban, the Scottish Kilt, The Rabbi and
the Jewish Traditions, all these differences. And sometimes
resulting in a whole lot of misunderstanding. But if we only
took the time to understand, to learn, to respect - just maybe
this world would be an easier and better place to reside.

So start with simple things that may interest you. Learn about
the Kirpan ceremonial sword that would symbolize God's
power and justice, among the Sikh. Learn about the various
customs and traditions in Japan. And gradually expand your
horizons. To simply discover, what a unique and diverse
world we live in.

And last of all strive to continually observe nature and the
beauty and glory of each day....