Celebrating Our Differences

Part of Mosaic Lifespan Curriculum

Open

Chalice Lighting

“We are Unitarian Universalists with minds that think, hearts that love, and hands that are ready to serve”
- Aisha Hauser and Susan Lawrence

Ask participants to share their name, pronouns, and a joy or a sorrow they are bringing with them today.

At the word “Unitarian,” have children make a U shape with one hand, and at “Universalist” children create a second U with their second hand.

At the word “mind” have children place hands on head.

 At the word “heart” have children place both hands on their heart.

At the word “hands,” have children reach both hands in front of them, palm up

Read

“What Makes Us Unique? Our First Talk About Diversity” (YouTube) by Dr. Jillian Roberts

The book states “we all want to spend time with our families” which isn’t true for every child. You might suggest “we all want to spend time with people who love us” might be more accurate and inclusive.

Watch

“Respecting the Differences Between People,” (YouTube) a youth Tedx Talk by Mariana Chartier

Discuss

  • Why do you think it’s important to respect the differences between people?
  • Have you experienced or witnessed disrespect for differences?
  • Do you think the speaker forgot to include anything important in the speech? What would you add?

Do

What’s the Same, What’s Different Game

Talk with your group to find something that makes each of you different, and three interesting things that you all have in common. The things in common need to be as creative as possible, not just that you’re all Unitarian Universalist.

Have one person from the group write down the similarities and differences.

Share your similarities and differences with the class.

Break into smaller groups of 3-4 if needed. Utilize breakout rooms on Zoom if needed.

Discuss

  • Did anything surprise you?

  • How do you feel about your similarities and differences? What do you like about the things that make you unique?

  • Today’s class focuses on celebrating differences? Why might this be important?

Close

Check Out Question: Ask everyone to share a difference they’re proud of.

Chalice Extinguishing

We need joy as we need air. We need love as we need water.
We need each other as we need the earth we share.
-Maya Angelou

Movement for chalice extinguishing:

At the word “air” have children move hands through the air in a dancing or swirling motions.

At the word “water” move hands, arms or bodies in a wave motion.

At the word earth create a round shape with arms in front of the body.

Take Home

Discuss Together

  • What’s an interesting thing that makes each household member different?

  • What’s an unexpected or interesting thing you all have in common?

  • How might these differences help your family or household?

  • Did you ever have a difference you were embarrassed about?

  • What differences are you proud of?

  • What might be different or unique about your family or household?

Additional Resources to Explore