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I was looking up the saying, "our strength lies in our diversity" and came across an article on the Federalist Society's website, which was titled "Diversity is Not Our Strength". Now admittedly, I had never before gone on this website before - not my cup of tea so to speak - but I felt like, in order to walk the talk of an open mind, I would consider their point of view. Basically the concept is that we (as a country) are stronger if we have a common vision, character and "moral fiber". Hard to disagree with that - but then, as you read further, it becomes apparent that the author believes this can only be accomplished if we are all alike in other ways; ancestry, religion, sexual preference and identity, culture... All things with which I vehemently disagree. As I look around in nature, I see diversity - in types of insects, birds, mammals, trees, plants, topography, climate - all balanced together, all needing something that the other has - symbiotic. As I look around at human community, it seems to me diversity helps keep us strong. If we were all the same, some of our basic needs would not be met. We need artists, musicians, laborers, scientists, explorers and those who keep the homefires burning. We need hunters and gatherers. We need shamans and healers. We need different perspectives and abilities. 


Farmers know they have to rotate crops to keep from depleting the soil. They know to plant different varieties of crop in case a blight takes out one variety. Breeders know that you have to bring in different lines to make the breed stronger. 


The one thing I do agree with though - that as a citizens of our country, we should agree on the concept of freedom. Which doesn't mean everyone is free to do whatever they want. Individual freedom (rights) end where they infringe on someone else's freedom (rights). Fortunately, or unfortunately, that line is not easily agreed upon.