O is for open (as in open minded)

Too many people in this world are close minded.  If more people were open-minded, there would be less war.  If more people were open-minded, there would be fewer instances of hate crimes.  If more people were open-minded, there would be less persecution.  If more people were open-minded, there would be less of an opportunity for politicians to lie for us.  If more people were open-minded, there would be fewer bullies.  If more people were open-minded, there would be less of a need for soldiers dying for their countries.

I think my favorite saying came from my niece - who is half Mexican and looks it - when she was fourteen years old: "I'm a human girl.  You're a human boy.  We're all human. Who gives a damn if my skin is darker than yours?  Open your fucking mind already.  It's not like I'm going to kill you or anything.  Being different is cooler than being the same as everyone else anyway."  Of course, her mom washed her mouth out with soap for swearing but the sentiment is very true.

I'm a human woman.  You're all human beings.  Who gives a damn what color, nationality, religion, political persuasion, age, gender, and/or sexual preference you are?

I certainly don't.  Being different, being open-minded about those differences in other people, THAT'S the coolest thing ever.