I love to travel and visit other countries. Training, coaching, speaking and the occasional vacation has taken me to nearly every continent and most recently Australia where I got to represent the ABHOW board on which I serve.
Attending the International Association of Homes and Services for the Aging Conference (IAHSA) in Perth, Australia, I spent time in the great hall listening, learning and observing. Among the ways that the culture was brought to life for me was the “matter of fact” way the speakers spoke with respect for the indigenous people. A significant number of speakers began their presentations with expressions of respect to the Aboriginal People and the sacredness of the land on which they were speaking.
While there, I also met Sister Lucia Raseipone (photographed with Rev. Dr. Marcia 
Patton and I). Sister Lucia is a Catholic nun and manager of St. Antonines Home for the Aged in Dundee, South African. Her presentation brimmed with her caring and love for the elderly. She finds ways to honor them and their beliefs without compromising her faith.
Visiting museums and tourist attractions in Perth and Sydney, I appreciated videos, exhibits and displays. There were signs like this that read, 
WARNING: Visitors should be aware that this includes images and names of deceased people that may cause sadness or distress to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.” That was a valuing of Aboriginal sensitivities, art and culture.
I will share these stories in my Diversity & Inclusion programs. They are authentic examples of how to be culturally sensitive, inclusive and practitioners of the Platinum Rule. We know the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” The Platinum Rule is “Do unto others as they would have them do unto them.” Big difference.
When we accept as equally valid the insights, perspectives, opinions and ideas of people who are different from us, when we have and assume a positive intention, it is freeing and joyful.
In all matters, which would you rather experience? Being tolerated or honored?
- “Tolerate: Allow the existence, occurrence, or practice of (something that one does not necessarily like or agree with) without interference.” From the Latin word for enduring pain.
- “Honor: Respect that is given to someone who is admired. A good reputation; good quality or character as judged by other people.”
If you are interested in learning more about my approach to Diversity & Inclusion, let us talk. With the multi-cultural, generational and global shift in the workforce, this is becoming increasingly important. Contact me to learn more, to attend, or host one of the Triad West Inc. diversity programs.
