It is a fact that the world is comprised of people of many faiths. It is a second fact that, like it or not, with your support or without it, your children will interact with children of other faiths. I personally embrace this premise for myself and my children as it not only sharpens their own spiritual identity, for without differences there is no perspective, but better prepares them for their adult world – business and personal.

However, I am not so naïve as to think that I represent the norm. Disappointedly, my interactions have shown me to be the exception. Once you get outside of my rather small sector of full acceptance, you find 2 general groups. The first group is comprised of people whose hearts and minds already have hardened to the premise of respect and compassion for people of other faiths. I can’t make any progress with those that choose to put their heads in the sand. It is this second group that I am aiming this article to, the group that knows that they should be more proactive in this area of teaching their children on the issue of spiritual sensitivities, but for any of several reasons, are falling short. In this instance, falling short means just not dealing with the issue. Here’s where the rub comes in – either you will manage this process, or an outside influence that may not share your views, will. The premise of spiritual respect is really quite simple, but wars have been fought, and are still being fought, when one belief system attempts to force their way onto others.

The reason I say that the premise is simple is because it is grounded on the same principles of respect, compassion and understanding that form the foundation of any well rounded child. Let’s go even more basic – treat others as you yourself would want to be treated. Sound familiar? That’s really the basis of this article. I can write about my views for years and years, but these views take on a higher level of credibility and pertinence and become real when they come from the mouths of the very children I am writing about.

“I am ready to accept the other and make peace, as long as I am respected as a human being.” - Palestinian Muslim child participating in children’s interfaith peace program, Kids4Peace www.kids4peaceatlanta.org

To get respect, you need to be willing to give it. This extends to all areas of human behavior and life, including one’s belief system. Don’t ignore this vital part of early childhood education. You may be pleasantly surprised what these interactions will do for your own spiritual identity.

March 2011