Things to Think About

“The world is becoming very cosmopolitan, but we are separated more by ignorance than diversity.” Anonymous

I love a good paradox, especially one that could awaken something in us that deserves our attention. This quote is a wonderful example because it speaks to the most perplexing part of something we live with every day, but do not yet understand: globalization. Like it or not, every day shows us in some way or another how globally interdependent we are becoming for all manner of products and services. Most of us even have daily interaction with someone from a different culture.  In that sense business is becoming more cosmopolitan, to be sure.  But what is missing in this interaction is the effort to understand—to understand the other culture with which we’re dealing, versus trying to just tolerate that culture, which could bring about a much more pleasant, effective and sustainable process and outcome.  So, let me offer the definition of the word cosmopolitan from Dictionary.com as something worthy of your reflection as you navigate your own path in this global environment in which we all live today.  Cosmopolitan: Free from local, provincial, or national ideas, prejudices, or attachments; belonging to all the world; not limited to just one part of the world.

Good luck on your journey!