Me and My Billions of Nearly Identical Twins: Celebrating Our Shared Humanity and Beautiful Differences
Imagine this: billions of us, walking around, living our lives, yet we're almost all identical twins. Genetically speaking, that's not far from the truth. A staggering 99.9% of human DNA is the same across our entire species. It's that tiny, remarkable 0.1% that makes each of us uniquely "us."
This concept, beautifully explored by geneticist James F. Crow, highlights a profound truth: what unites us as humans far outweighs what divides us. Perhaps I'm a perennial optimist, but I genuinely believe we're onto something powerful here – a fundamental shared humanity that forms the bedrock of our existence.
And yet, within that minuscule genetic variation lies a universe of impactful and beautiful differences. I was recently reminded of this during a trip to Washington D.C., as I wandered through the awe-inspiring Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. The Basilica, home to one of the world's largest collections of contemporary ecclesial art, offered a striking panorama of diverse artistic expressions. What truly captivated me were the varied depictions of Our Lady, each reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the people who turn to her for intercession. It was a powerful testament showing how our shared spiritual journeys can be expressed in a multitude of unique and personal ways.
Each chapel was a vibrant tapestry of faith, reflecting the artistic traditions and spiritual expressions of diverse cultures. I saw Mary depicted with serene Asian features in one alcove, dark-skinned and serious in another, and adorned with delicate filigree reminiscent of Latin American craftsmanship in a third. It highlighted how deeply faith is interwoven with cultural identity, allowing each community to see and connect with the divine in a way that resonates with their own heritage.
Speaking of universal connections, can we talk about food for a minute? Ah, food! The great unifier, the purest expression of hospitality across cultures, that "more-than-just-nourishment" thing that truly defines a shared experience. Beyond the flavors, the rituals around food also speak to cultural beauty. The elaborate tea ceremonies in Japan, where every gesture is imbued with meaning, or the vibrant family-style banquets in Italy where conversation flows as freely as the wine – these moments transcend mere sustenance. They are profound acts of connection, of inviting someone into the heart of a culture.
I've been incredibly fortunate to travel to various places recently, both for work and pleasure. When I reflect on the highlights of each destination, they almost invariably revolve around a meal – whether it was the unforgettable company, the exquisite flavors, or sometimes, the unexpected (like those brazen birds of Miami who tried to share my breakfast!).
Those who know me well know of my deep-seated love for travel. My only real boundary for exploration is conflict; if there's war, I'm out. While I dream of circumnavigating the globe several times over, my current resources don't quite allow for that (yet!). So, what's my Plan B? Beyond visiting museums and churches, I immerse myself in different cultures by seeking out authentic eateries wherever I go. It's a delicious form of "armchair travel." Just ask anyone who's explored a major city or even wandered through Epcot – eating your way around the world is a fantastic way to experience places that might otherwise be out of reach. It's a beginning, anyway!
It's about seeking out the hole-in-the-wall eateries run by immigrant families, whose recipes carry generations of tradition. It's about discovering the tiny spice shop that transports you to a bustling bazaar, or the baker who still uses techniques passed down from their ancestors. Each authentic bite isn't just a meal; it's a miniature expedition, a sensory immersion into a different way of life, a chance to appreciate the dedication and love poured into preserving cultural heritage through cuisine.
There's something profoundly enriching about experiencing other cultures and striving to see the world through different eyes. This pursuit of understanding, whether through art, shared meals, or simply observing daily life in a new place, enriches our own existence. It expands our empathy, challenges our assumptions, and reminds us that while our genetic blueprint is almost identical, the diverse expressions of our shared humanity are truly what make life vibrant and meaningful. It’s in this beautiful mosaic of human experience that we find echoes of ourselves, and an endless source of wonder.
As Vincent Strand wisely wrote, "God is found not only in the exotic but also in the familiar." And perhaps, in embracing both our shared humanity and our beautiful, unique differences, we truly begin to discover the divine in every corner of our remarkable world.
