When it comes to what matters most, we are one
“Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch. Deal ye one with another with the utmost love and harmony, with friendliness and fellowship.” Bahá’u’lláh
We Are One is School of the Nations’ campaign theme for 2019-20. Our School was founded on the belief that “the earth is one country and mankind its citizens.” We are all members of the same human family. Diversity is a part of this oneness. We come in different sizes, colors, and shapes and from different places, but we are created from the same Divine source. When it comes to what matters most, we are one.
We can compare humanity to the human body. Within this organism, millions of cells, diverse in form and function, play their part in maintaining a healthy system. The principle that governs the functioning of the body is cooperation. Its various parts do not compete for resources; rather, each cell, from its inception, is linked to a continuous process of giving and receiving.
The oneness of humanity does not imply uniformity. Rather, the Bahá’í writings affirm the principle of unity in diversity. More than merely tolerating differences or celebrating superficial aspects of diverse cultures, the diversity of the human family should be the cause of abiding love and harmony, “as it is in music where many different notes blend together in the making of a perfect chord.”
Acceptance of the oneness of humanity demands that prejudice—whether racial, religious, or gender-related—be eliminated. Any sense of superiority based on a person’s nationality, economic status, or ethnicity is an illusion. The true distinction among people is the content of their character and the degree to which they act on moral principles.
When we embrace the principle of oneness, we can envision new possibilities and work together to build a more just and sustainable society.
“The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established.” Bahá’u’lláh
At School of the Nations, we live, learn, and work with colleagues from all backgrounds and parts of the world. Everyone belongs. This experience must grow and expand until everyone in the world realizes: We are One!