"Cuando te llamas a ti mismo indio o musulmán o cristiano o europeo o cualquier otra cosa estás siendo violento"

Identifying yourself strictly by a particular label - be it Indian, Muslim, Christian, or European - can create boundaries that divide and exclude others. It builds walls instead of bridges. This idea is not about violence in the physical sense, but about the mental and emotional divisions we create among ourselves. When we cling too tightly to these identities, we often overlook our shared humanity. We end up fostering an "us vs. them" mentality, which can lead to prejudice, misunderstanding, and conflict.

Imagine the scene: it's the mid-20th century. The world is still reeling from the effects of World War II, a period marked by intense nationalism and ideological divides. This quote could have emerged from the reflections of a thinker like Jiddu Krishnamurti, who often spoke about the dangers of labels and divisions. He believed that these labels condition our thinking and prevent us from seeing people as they truly are – fellow human beings with the same fundamental desires and fears.

Think about the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. It was one of the most horrific instances of what can happen when labels and identities are weaponized. The Hutu and Tutsi tribes saw each other as fundamentally different and hostile. This led to one of the most brutal genocides in history. The labels weren't just names; they were loaded with history, resentment, and hatred. This is an extreme example, but it highlights the potential for violence when we let these labels dominate our thinking.

So, how do we apply this wisdom in our daily lives? Start by being more mindful of the labels you use. When you're at work, for instance, try to see your colleagues as individuals rather than just their job titles. This shift in perspective can lead to more genuine interactions and collaborations. If you're part of a community group, make an effort to reach out to people who might not share the same background or beliefs as you. It's about finding common ground and celebrating diversity, rather than letting it divide us.

Let's picture a more everyday scenario. You walk into a new classroom or workplace. Naturally, you notice differences – the girl in the hijab, the guy with the Southern accent, the person who always wears a cross necklace. Instead of letting these markers define your interactions, you decide to get to know them. You find out that the girl in the hijab loves sci-fi novels just like you. The guy with the accent? He’s passionate about environmental conservation. The person with the cross necklace? They’re an amazing guitarist. The labels fade into the background, and you’re left with real, meaningful connections.

By being conscious of how labels shape our perceptions, we can foster a more inclusive, empathetic world. It’s about giving people the space to be more than just a category. It’s about recognizing the shared experience that unites us all. So next time you feel the urge to put someone in a box, pause. Think about what you might be missing out on by not seeing the whole person. This small shift in mindset can lead to a big change in how we relate to each other – one that’s less about division and more about understanding.