What is Cooperation?

It is not a new concept that in order to advance in society and other parts of our lives, we need other people. We are social beings, wired to connect with others. Some of us more than others, but we all need it. This connection with others becomes even more important when we are new, or different. Humans need other humans to relate to and understand them, to accept them as they are and welcome them.

When you live in an area as diverse as ours, it is important to foster the cooperation between the different ethnic groups. We might not have culture, or even language in common, but we share that desire to connect and share our experiences and what makes us special. We can learn so much from each other, from how we live life differently- to different ways to cook something as simple as a potato. By sharing these stories and experiences, and cooperating with each other, we become better and more rounded.

Cooperation is defined as the process of groups working or acting together for common, mutual, or some underlying benefit, as opposed to working in competition for selfish benefit. Many animal and plant species cooperate both with other members of their own species and with members of other species. As humans, we can cooperate with each other to improve our lives, and the lives of others. We are all in this together, not as competitors, but as friends and allies. When we all work together, we all win.

This cooperation needs to be a two way street, however. Both parties need to communicate their needs and accept the others' suggestions and advice in respect and love. Sometimes we won't agree in certain topics, but we should learn to cooperate and find common ground, for the benefit of all. It is cooperation among groups that has effected the most change in societies in the past. It was when a diverse group of people got together, and helped each other, and worked hard together, that things improved for the most vulnerable or disenfranchised in their communities.

Cooperation, in times like the ones we are living now, is very important. We can use the privilege we have to help others' voices be heard, to bring people to the table, to shine a light on issues that might not affect us directly, but that affect our community. Knowing that there's diversity is a must. Striving to have it in all levels of our life, and helping minority communities be included, it's good. Taking it a step further and truly cooperating with people different to us, with an open heart and mind, is even better.

By cooperating with each other, we make a better community. For everyone.

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