How color pencils could unite children

This morning, I accompanied my daughter Megan to see her pedaetrician at Hospital Likas. The last time we came was about 3 months ago. The waiting area was so crowded with parents and children running around here and there. This time, there seems to be more children, perhaps due to the school holiday and they've got nowhere to go but to follow their parents. Just like them, I look for an available seat and sat there waiting for Megan's turn. As usual, Megan could not sit still, so off she goes and joint the big group of children doing some coloring.

I just sat there and observe the children including Megan sharing the colour pencils which seems to be so limited. They do not feel shy asking for the others to share the color pencils eventhough they just met there a few minutes ago. I can even hear them laughing while waiting for their turn to use the color pencils. I don't see them arguing but instead wait patiently for the rest to complete their coloring. I find it fascinating that they can do so without squabbling.

During those few minutes observing these children, it came to my mind that how peaceful would our country be if only we know the importance of tolerating each other? We know that we all come from different races, religion and background but one thing for sure we are all MALAYSIANs. So, why the fuss of questioning others?
Why should we look for differences among us when we should be looking for similarities?

Again, when I peep on what Megan is doing, I saw the Malay girl next to her talking to her about her drawings. And I can see Megan laughing while showing the drawing to the girl. I know Megan doesn't know the girl but they can talk. No wonder, we always hear that our childhood time is the most interesting and enjoyable life. Perhaps, this is true because to our children their differences in terms of race, religion, background and so forth is not the factor to them from getting to know each other.

I am glad that Megan is able to mingle around with the other children. My only hope is that my children will continue to make friends regardless of race and religion. I believe this is the only way for them to learn how to tolerate since young.

If we want Peace and Harmony among us, it has to start from us.