Harmony in diversity 다양성 안의 조화

Long ago, my Provincial Superior of the religious community advised me to give more priority to the community.

So, she didn't send me to go abroad even though I sincerely wanted to study further. It was only after the perpetual profession that the other Provincial Superior allowed me to go abroad. However, after the perpetual profession, studying abroad was no longer my concern and interest. So I concentrated on doing my editorial apostolate and I worked hard with much zeal.

Celebrating 10 years of my final vows, I volunteered to come to Singapore as a missionary and I am finding myself appreciating much of the "harmony in diversity" that has been immersed into the community throughout the country. Harmony in diversity lets people living in Singapore be tuned with respect for individuality and uniqueness.

If you ask me to summarize the greatest characteristics of Singapore in a word, I would say harmony in diversity. The more I take a look at Singapore, the more I find it is a country that is multireligious, multinational, multiracial, multicultural, multilingual, and offers multi-cuisine. Wherever I go, I feel "Wow, it is really diverse!" So much diversity coexists together!

Regarding religion, only 44 percent of the population identify themselves with Buddhism and Taoism, 15 percent with Islam, 18 percent with Christianity, 5 percent with Hinduism, 17 percent profess to be non-religious, and others. All these groups are gathered around each other in absolute harmony. Here and there, we can observe the religious devotion that leads people to practice their piety according to their distinctive colors.

Every citizen is free to practice their own belief. The funeral ceremony and ritual customs of Taoism look very special. Looking at those who participate in Mass, Singaporeans, Chinese, Indians, and Filipinos are mixed all together; Masses are offered in various languages and their harmonious gatherings look natural and free.

With regard to the races, Chinese (76.8 percent) constitute the majority, then 13.9 percent Malay, 7.9 percent Indian, and 1.7 percent other minor races, but they respect these differences and uniqueness. The population of Singapore is only half of that of Seoul, and 25 percent of the Singaporean population are foreigners.

English is the common language, but the government allows Malay, Chinese, and Tamil. That means the four languages are all accepted as formal languages. Students study English as their first language and choose another second language. At Nanyang Technological University alone, 11 language courses are offered; among them, the Korean language is getting more interest probably because of the Han wave phenomena.

Morality and ethics, the way to live in harmony, a sense of belonging to the community and mental bond, teamwork, and cooperation are regarded as important values of education. So the need for harmonious relationships is inculcated into children in early childhood. The law itself protects individual differences and uniqueness.

In the food centers, both Asian foods and Western foods are served variously and the nickname "the paradise of foods" come to our mind. Wherever we are, we can enjoy the various tastes of each country. Probably because of the hot weather, people rather eat out at hawker centers. People really enjoy eating.

With Providential hands, Pauline community also lives with other communities such as Cenacles sisters, Kindergarten of St. Francis of Assisi, and Choice retreat house. A simple harmony is revealed in our relationships sharing meals together around the small round table.

It is a joy to sit face to face and talk while eating at the round table. Looking superficially, people look individual and egoistic, but love and concern, considerate care, and understanding appeal more. It's a beautiful harmony in diversity leading to the fullness and communion of life.

https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/opinion/2022/06/137_133559.html 

The Korea Times/ Thoughts of the Times/ April 9, 2013