How might one view and approach the stranger?

Unless a person does something that overly undermines their humanity (compassion for others), approach everyone with the presumption of inherent divinity, dignity and meaning. And begin the conversation from there.

WHEN it comes to viewing and approaching strangers, we can start with the presumption of inherent divinity, dignity and meaning. This perspective can serve as a foundation for compassionate connections, even in situations where we may be feeling guarded or uncertain.

Of course, context and circumstances can challenge us to maintain this perspective in difficult situations, especially when we encounter behavior that seems to contradict our most cherished values. However, if we remember that we all have unique and shared struggles and challenges, and that sometimes others act in ways out of character or influenced by unknown external factors, we can maintain a mindset of mindfulness and meaningful interactions.

In addition to starting with a presumption of inherent value, we can also approach strangers with curiosity and openness. Rather than assuming that we have all the answers or jumping to conclusions, we can seek to understand the other person’s perspective and experiences, which may involve the sometimes not so obvious: asking questions, actively listening, and being willing to challenge our own assumptions and biases. Ultimately, viewing and approaching strangers with compassion, curiosity, and an open mind can help us build bridges and navigate the nuances of the world around us.