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The Essence of Human Being: Identity, Difference, and the Power of Inclusion
“To be a human being is to exist not only in self-reflection but also in relationship — with others, with difference, and with the shared humanity that binds us together. Our diversity is not a challenge to overcome but the very fabric of what it means to belong in this world.” — Effenus Henderson
The term “human being” carries profound meaning, as it encompasses the duality of existence: the physical and the metaphysical, the individual and the collective. Yet, to fully understand the richness of human existence, we must layer this understanding with the concepts of identity, difference, and diversity. Together, these elements shape not only who we are but also how we relate to one another and create inclusive communities.
Identity: The Core of Being
Identity is the internal compass that defines our sense of self. It is shaped by a confluence of factors — our biology, culture, experiences, and relationships. It gives us a lens through which we perceive the world and a voice with which we articulate our existence.
The “being” in human being invites us to consider identity not as fixed but as evolving. We are not static creatures, bound by a single narrative, but dynamic beings shaped by the interplay of who we are and who…
