wanted to write a piece on diversity because there is such an opportunity for leaders to create something wonderful simply by understanding the uniqueness that each person brings to the workplace and what can be created because of it.
Instead of writing a lot of prose on the subject though, I offer you a poem by Shane DeRolf that illustrates what leaders can create if they simply view the diversity of their workforces as a gift for the accomplishment of great things.
The Crayon Box That Talked
By Shane DeRolf
While walking in the toy store
The day before today
I overheard a crayon box
With many things to say
“I don’t like the Red,” said the Orange
and Green said, “Nor do I”
and no one here likes Yellow
But no one knows just why
“We are a box of crayons
that doesn’t get along”
Said Blue to all the others
“Something here is wrong.”
Well, I bought that box of crayons
And I took it home with me
And laid out all the colors
So the crayons could all see
They watched me as I colored
With Red and Blue and Green
And Black and White and Orange
And every color in between
They watched as Green became the grass
And Blue became the sky
The Yellow sun was shining bright
On White clouds drifting by
Colors changing as they touched
Becoming something new
They watched me as I colored
They watched until I was through
And when I’d finally finished
I began to walk away
And as I did the crayon box
Had something new to say
“I do like Red,” said Orange
and Green said, “So do I”
and Blue you were terrific
so high up in the sky
“We are a box a crayons
each one of us unique
But when we get together
The picture is complete.”
I’m thinking that, for me, a good way to start a new year would be to consider the wealth of diversity around me and to make a conscious decision to be open to ideas and possibilities that I may not have considered before. How about you?
Here’s a link to Shane DeRolf’s website – Respect Diversity Foundation
How wonderful!
Been thinking a lot about diversity lately, not in the traditional sense of gender and ethnicity, but in the sense of diversity of perspective and values. We tend to be drawn to the people who are like us including the ones who think like we do. It is often only when we see them “draw” something incredible with their uniqueness that we wake up to the possibility of what they can contribute. This is such a great metaphor.
Why is embracing diversity so hard? The question this poem provokes is how can we learn to embrace diversity before it is “proven”?
Gywn- this is so awesome! I love it, and can not wait to share! There is so much application for leaders, for teachers, and for students! I love your blog- keep the inspiration coming!
Susan, Yes if we could only get away from the notion that diversity relates only to ethnicity. If we were to accept that each of us has something special to offer, as human beings, and find a way to keep it simple, maybe we would all be that much richer! Thanks for your usual insightful comments.
Angela, Thanks so much for your comments and your encouragement. I love your enthusiasm for learning and for life!