Arrogance is a Child of Ignorance.

I’ll stop short of saying it is an “illegitimate” child. It is most likely quite legitimate.

But why do Americans assume that the best thing we can do for the immigrants who come to our country is Americanize them? Instead of looking at their culture and seeing what we can learn, we immediately assume our way is the best way and force it upon others.

One case in point: We say time is important. It is rude to be late. Many other cultures, including one I am intimately involved with, say time is unlimited. It is rude to start before everyone is there.  Our culture says time is more important than people. Other cultures say people are more important than time.

People are more important. I like that. I am not talking about a People First Language, that my respected friend so rightly mocks. That’s too easy. Like much of well-intentioned political correctness, real improvement goes much deeper. I am talking about a people first approach to life–the kind Jesus had. It puts people above rules, dogma, tradition and culture.

I am sure the Pharisees would hate me for this. But I am in good company.