Unity in Diversity

Over the 14 years I have been part of the Dalat community, one of the most significant changes has been the increase in diversity. In the early years, Dalat was a school specifically for American missionary children. The vast majority of the students and staff represented that same demographic. After the school became independent in 2000, the staff and students began to come from a wider variety of countries and backgrounds. We now have students from 23 different countries and no more than 35% from any one country.

This increased diversity provides us with numerous opportunities to learn from others and deepen our understanding of the people of the world. However, it also brings challenges. Sometimes we have trouble communicating as we speak different languages. We celebrate different holidays and eat different foods. We have different ways of thinking, and our preferences vary greatly. However, we can be intentional about using all of these differences as opportunities for growth.

The PTO does a beautiful job of demonstrating unity in diversity. This week, the parent community came together to bless the staff with an amazing meal. The date coincides with American Thanksgiving, but it is celebrated as a time to express gratitude for all of our staff, no matter where they are from. The PTO intentionally includes some traditional Thanksgiving dishes, but also blesses the staff with treats from a variety of different cultures. We are all grateful and celebrate together, regardless of whether our own families observe this holiday or not.

Bersama-sama: We Belong Together, is not about all of us being the same. The focus is on building community among people from diverse backgrounds. We are brought together physically by the school, but it is up to each of us to choose to participate in growing our friendships and in understanding others. This means that we seek to understand and love others, valuing them as individuals.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.” Philippians 2:3