Syeda Sara Hassan

Lahore, Pakistan

Strengths in our Difference

“We’re not the same,” I hear the words in the anger of another; the building rush of hatred mirroring my fear. Back then I could not find it within myself to ask “why not?” because some instinctual need would rather have me duck, cover and walk away than give reasons to become the target.

Eventually I got my answer, when the naivety of youth faded away and the magic of seeing the same blonde haired, blue-eyed children on adventures became lackluster when no one around me fit that description perfectly. I understood not everyone was the same, in more ways than one, but what still eluded me was the venom with which it was said: “We’re not the same.” It was spat out like rotten fruit, whereas the reality of the statement had been a revelation.

It is ridiculous to want everyone to be the same, more so to expect it. The utter lack of creativity it would entail; no fresh perspectives, no uniqueness. Yet, our differences are weaponized, cast as defects, viewed as flaws that overshadow their beauty when differences breed societies far better than conformity.

“We’re not the same” rings true, but why should we be?