Creating a Sense of Belonging with Tolerance and Kindness

November includes two less well-known celebrations: International Day of Tolerance and World Kindness Day. Both events speak directly to creating a sense of belonging. As we celebrate Thanksgiving this month, we surround ourselves with family and friends. During your gathering, think about these two celebrations. We hope they make your holiday an event where all feel they have a seat at your Thanksgiving table.

International Day for Tolerance - November 16

The UN General Assembly started International Day for Tolerance to help educational institutions and the general public see tolerance as a staple of society. It followed the United Nations' Year for Tolerance in 1995. International Day of Tolerance, held on November 16, is a great opportunity to think back and recall the last time we had a different perspective than a friend or family member.

Think about the last time you learned something new about someone else’s culture or their family style. Even what makes them smile. This month, take time to celebrate open-mindedness and listening. Start a respectful conversation with someone with a differing viewpoint. You will find you have more in common than you expected.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Read About Different Cultures
  Reading about diverse cultures or nationalities is a great way to break down intolerances you may not know you have. It also will increase awareness of other intolerances throughout the world.
• Listen to Neighbors Who Have Different Viewpoints
  Listening to others is a wonderful way to open your perspective. It helps you take a better look at the world and how you perceive it. Tolerance and intolerance can only be identified by listening more to those who may have suffered at the hands of intolerance and hearing what they have to say.
• Participate in Events of Remembrance or Advocacy
  If you want to truly celebrate International Day of Tolerance, the best thing to do is go out and participate.

Declaration on Principles on Tolerance:

“Tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation
of the rich diversity of our world's cultures,
our forms of expression and ways of being human."

World Kindness Day

Initiated by a worldwide collection of kindness organizations, World Kindness Day was established in 1998. It was part of a global movement to create a focus on promoting kindness. 

The day highlights thoughtful actions in the community, focusing on the positive power of kindness and the good connecting all of us. Kindness bridges the divide of race, religion, politics, gender, and location. The World Kindness Movement is approaching the United Nations to have World Kindness Day officially recognized.

Below are 7 ways to celebrate World Kindness Day:

1. Send an uplifting text to a friend or family member.
2. Let the guy merge into traffic with a wave and a smile.
3. Include intentional moments of kindness, laughter, and delight in your daily routine.
4. Go slightly outside of your comfort zone at least once a day to make someone smile.
5. Share a compliment with a co-worker or friend.
6. Reach out to a family member you have not spoken to in a while.
7. Treat someone to a cup of coffee (a friend, a stranger, or even yourself).

We believe the richness of our PSL communities comes from the residents, family members and team members from many backgrounds. It is what makes our communities a warm and welcoming place to live, and work. We also know the kindness we share towards each other every day strengthens all of us. We hope you take time this month to discover other cultures and to share a kind word with all.