As young people, we hold a responsibility to advance human fraternity in a divided world and to help usher in a new generation of leaders and global citizens defined by tolerance and unity. I believe that human fraternity is best advanced when young people actively seek out and engage in conversations and activities that challenge our assumptions and expand our understanding.
One of the most powerful, and often most challenging, ways to do this is by asking questions of your peers. For me, there has always been a fear of coming across as uneducated, of not appearing well-read. Yet, as young people, there is so much we do not know about the world beyond our own walls. I encourage leaning into these conversations, even when they feel uncomfortable. Religion and faith, in particular, are often considered off-limits, avoided at the dinner table to prevent conflict. My concern is that, without dialogue, we retreat into echo chambers of polarization, losing the critical engagement necessary for understanding.
I am not advocating debate for the sake of argument. Rather, I encourage respectful, thoughtful inquiry. If you have a Muslim friend, ask about their experience with faith, and share your own. Seek common ground or elements of universality in what they say. For most people, sharing their culture and religion is a joy, not a burden, but it must come from genuine curiosity, respect, and the spirit of fraternity, not with the intent to challenge or undermine.
The French philosopher Simone Weil said, “Your attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity.” I would take this a step further: attention is the greatest gift you can give another person. True understanding comes from listening deeply and engaging with curiosity aimed at connection rather than division. For me, this has been most meaningful through dialogue and participation in cultural and religious activities. I encourage every Christian to attend a service at a mosque, every Muslim to visit a Hindu temple, and every Jew to experience a Buddhist shrine. This practice is not intended to cast doubt on one’s own beliefs but to gain exposure to the experiences and faith of others.
What is true for you is not true for everyone else. Indonesia, with six official religions and a constitution that reflects unity across diversity, has been a powerful example of how pluralism can thrive harmoniously. In a world of divisions, young people have a responsibility to seek out diverse perspectives and, most importantly, offer them the gift of attention, respect, and genuine engagement.
