In this space I want to explore the issues of intercultural understanding. Some of these will be reactions to books or articles I have read, others will be taking on current events in light of our mission.

To start with, I was impressed with the European Soccer Cup’s dedication to “respect diversity.” Not only did the players pledge mutual respect, but some national clubs were fined for the unacceptable behaviour of their fans. National teams these days are rather mixed, ethnically and even racially (we find this normal in the U.S., but many European countries are more homogenous and their fans not yet attuned to the required respect).

Our election cycle, which is heating up in the media, will give us plenty of occasions to practice mutual respect. We are not enemies, but neighbors, colleagues, friends, who just beg to differ with each other on the best course for our nation.