"Untouchable"

Just a few minutes ago, I finished reading a very empowering article in the NYTimes, “From Untouchable To Businesswoman.” This article featured Kakuben Lalabhai Parmar, an Indian artisan from the state of Gujarat. If the Indian caste system still applied, Ms.Parmar would be classified as an “untouchable”, the absolute lowest rung.

That is what angered me, the fact that a human being could (and can) be labeled, limited and totally subsumed by a stupid title! This caste limited Kakuben to the boundaries of her home; she could not go anywhere, interact, or touch anything to do with anyone of a different caste.

Of course there are vice versa cases, such as the Queen of England, but that is quite a one sided ordeal. People who meet Elizabeth have to use a certain title, manner of speech, and curtsy or slightly bow from the waist. Well, why shouldn’t anyone who meets Kakuben curtsy?!

I feel like we humans should treat everyone the same in this world. I have met people who work as dishwashers, maids, cleaners in Red Carpet Clubs who are much more honest, humble,intelligent and open minded than the people who employ them. But I don’t go judging those who I do not know. I feel that everyone should be approached with a smile, an open mind AND an open heart.

Anyone can do anything in this world; you can go from being forced to live in a hut to being a successful, world traveling artisan. And just think, how much further could we endeavor with genuine smiles on our faces?