November 16th, 2025
Reflecting on International Day for Tolerance
On November 16, we join communities around the world in recognizing the International Day for Tolerance. This observance that raises public awareness about the dangers of intolerance and to foster mutual understanding and respect among different cultures and peoples. It was established by UNESCO in 1995, following the adoption of its Declaration of Principles on Tolerance, to promote human rights and peaceful societies. The day emphasizes that tolerance is not indifference but a commitment to respecting and accepting the diversity of world cultures and ways of life.
This day is a reminder that compassion, respect, and understanding are essential to building inclusive societies. At EAFWR, we believe that celebrating our differences strengthens us, and we remain committed to creating spaces where every individual feels safe, valued, and heard. Today and every day, we encourage our community to practice empathy, challenge prejudice, and stand together in support of inclusion for all.
With the theme of tolerance in mind, we are pleased to share a reflection from one of our team members, Trena Barnes. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experience!
Chameleon
My intense and never-ending resilience to handle change when your plans or life journey have taken a hard turn or hit a brick wall to stop.
A moment in time that threatens your entire being. Sure, this mortal coil has life and DNA, genetics and many other factors.
Like a chameleon each color represents a part of me I CAN NOT change and the many things that have influenced me to be who I AM today.
What you don’t see is the process to constantly reestablish to continue to find meaning and not let those colors be muted. My tail has grown back more times that I can count to start over again as a new ME!
What you don’t see
The new Diagnosis
The mental struggle
The emotions
The what ifs?
The new normal
The medications
The therapy
Changing relationships
The struggle with each new day
The self-reflection (WHY ME)?
The risks
The Hippocratic oath
The risk of 75%
The extreme pain and limitations on the deep depth of my soul within my body very few recognize the struggle of invisible disability!
- Filed under Blog