Unity Does Not Equate Uniformity

Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates introduced an eye-opening view of race for me. Coates writes a love letter to his son on the Black experience. This practice is something my father, a white man, did not have to do for me. However, the conversations between Black fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, families and offspring are all too familiar within Black communities.

Coates’s words illustrate the perception the rest of the world has toward the Black body. Particularly, the focus comes upon the Black experience in the US. Coates proposes that “race is the child of racism, not the father” (p. 7). Harmony’s vision to exist in the space of race while challenging its broken reality offers the unity we all need right now.

Unity does not equate uniformity. Harmony does not insist homogeneity. Instead, harmony insists upon peace beyond worldly barriers. Harmony offers community amidst political divisions. Harmony exists between opposing experiences.

If you find a hunger for harmony in your life, I invite you to our next Listening Circle. We listen to one another’s experiences and perspectives on a common event. Or, if you are ready to take the next step to equip yourself and others to seek Harmony, join our upcoming Harmony Seekers group. We will discuss various writings on race, history, community, and faith. Come, listen, and experience harmony where most perpetuate division.