In the melting pot that is America, there are many cultures that surround us. Although many cultures are represented in our nation, not all people take the time to understand the differences and learn what makes each of us similar.
“Save Me a Seat” by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan offers insight to the life of two fifth grade students who are struggling for acceptance in their school. One student, Ravi, had just moved from India. His lunches were vegetarian and looked strange to the other students. Joe, who has an auditory disorder, enjoys classic American lunches. Both students have a resentment toward one another at first, based off their clear differences.
Joe and Ravi find that they both are the target of the schools biggest bully. After talking a few times, they find they have a common goal – TAKE DOWN THE BULLY! The boys begin to talk more and soon enough, through their common goal they become the best of friends.
Joe and Ravi show us that if people look past things that make us different, we may just be able to accomplish so much more. And who knows, maybe we will find a lifelong friend along the way.
This story of human connection shows the importance of giving people who may be different from ourselves a chance. You never know what you could accomplish if you love those around you, or how important a person might become to you.
Always be kind and reach out to someone you may not normally chat with in passing. You never know what they are feeling, and a simple hello may change their day and make them feel accepted.