Being different can be a hard-fought battle

A Woman's View - by Barbara Daly

The Ireland I grew up in was a homogenous society.

Most of us had little experience of different nationalities, cultures or religions.

My parents’ generation had less again; Italians were probably the only foreign people they encountered in their town.

Everyone was Catholic apart from a sprinkling of Protestants who were a bit of a novelty. I know there are those who wish Irish society had remained that way, but I am not one.

I began teaching English to foreign students a few weeks ago. A wonderful group of people – all in Ireland for different reasons and all friendly, welcoming to me and interested in learning English.

Though the Ukrainians among them are not here by choice they do not complain and always say they are happy when I ask.

To hear all their stories and experiences was both fascinating and humbling. Those of us with the freedom to live and work where we want are so lucky.

A couple from Bolivia told me how they start work each morning at 4.30 a.m. in the chicken factory nearby.

They too were cheerful and happy with their lot. No complaints of tiredness or any less enthusiasm than anyone else, after their long day.

One thing they all had in common was their desire to talk – about their lives, their families, their countries and their cultures.

They rarely get the chance to speak to Irish people, to have conversations, and though many were lacking confidence in their English, they opened up once they were given the chance.

Maybe it is time for us to get to know these new residents of our country. They have so much to offer and to teach us, and they bring such wonderful colour and diversity to our society.

They are the same as us in many ways but their backgrounds and experiences are so different.

My seven-year-old child was upset today.

He felt he may be made fun of because he is not going to be making his Holy Communion next year.

I was so sad for him. We chose not to Christen our children as Gary is not a Catholic or of any particular religion.

I no longer practice as a Catholic and do not wish to see my children raised as Catholics, for many reasons.

It was a hard decision to make and one we knew would prove difficult for our children.

What upsets me is that being different is still so difficult in our society.

The system still makes it easier to be the same and do the same as everyone else.

I know that many parents nowadays Christen their children just so that they will be able to make Holy Communion and Confirmation the same as their friends, so that the children will not feel different.

I did not want to do this, but when I saw how upset my child was I began to question my decision.

I spoke to Callum about being different and about what a great thing that is. I told him that he is an amazing and unique little boy just as he is. He seemed to accept this but I know this issue will raise its head again.

I want him to grow up believing that different is good and interesting and sometimes necessary and that we are all the better for it.

However, it will be a hard-fought battle.