Equity: A Lesson from the Zoo

Good day, dear reader. I hope this post finds you well. Today, I’d like to share a tale from my past, a story that taught me a valuable lesson about equity. This story takes place in a setting that might surprise you – a zoo. So, sit back, relax, and let’s embark on this journey together.

The Day at the Zoo

Many moons ago, when my children were still young, we decided to spend a sunny afternoon at our local zoo. The air was filled with the sounds of chattering monkeys, roaring lions, and the laughter of children. It was a day of joy, a day of learning, and, as it turned out, a day of profound understanding.

The Lesson Unfolds

As we wandered through the zoo, we came across a sight that caught my attention. There were two enclosures side by side. One housed a majestic lion, the other a humble tortoise. The lion’s enclosure was vast, filled with rocks to climb and a pond to bathe in. The tortoise, on the other hand, had a much smaller space, with a tiny pool and a single rock to rest on.

My youngest, always the inquisitive one, asked, “Dad, why does the lion have a bigger home than the tortoise? Isn’t that unfair?”

Understanding Equity

I took a moment to gather my thoughts, then explained, “Son, it might seem unfair at first glance. But consider this – the lion is a large, active creature. He needs a lot of space to roam, to play, and to live comfortably. The tortoise, however, is smaller and less active. He doesn’t need as much space to be happy. What’s important is that both animals have what they need to thrive. That’s what equity is all about.”

Equity, dear reader, is not about everyone getting the same thing. It’s about everyone getting what they need to succeed. It’s about recognizing our differences and providing for them accordingly. It’s about fairness, yes, but a fairness that takes into account individual needs and circumstances.

Applying the Lesson

Just like the animals in the zoo, we all have different needs, different strengths, and different paths in life. By understanding and embracing these differences, we can create a world that is truly equitable. A world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, just like the lion and the tortoise at the zoo.

So, the next time you find yourself comparing your life to someone else’s, remember the lion and the tortoise. Remember that equity is not about sameness, but about fairness. And remember that everyone’s path is unique, and that’s something to be celebrated.

Until next time, dear reader, remember to embrace the differences, celebrate the uniqueness, and strive for equity in all you do.

Yours in wisdom,

Kev