Mountains and Beetles

Picture two adults at a campground picnic table. One is sorting photos of mountain views. The other is sketching beetles. At first, each thinks the other has missed the best part of the woods. Then the photographer leans over to look at a beetle’s bright green shell.

Neither camper has to give up a favorite thing. There is simply something new to notice, and someone worth knowing. The Scout Law point Friendly asks us to be a friend to all, including people who are different. We can start with curiosity instead of judgment. We do not need matching interests, backgrounds, or abilities to treat each other with warmth and respect.

This week, talk with someone whose interests are different from yours. Ask what they enjoy about a hobby you have never tried. Listen without making it a contest. Give their world a little room in yours.