It is difficult in our quest for honoring diversity, to know how to speak about and celebrate our religious and spiritual differences. In education, spiritual and religious aspects of ourselves have been separated and ignored. This AEI Learning Community, ignited by Kira's willingness to share, delved into the hard place of sharing and speaking of who we are in our spirit selves. Each student was richer and affirmed by the shared experiences. It's one thing to talk about diversity, it's yet another to truly experience it.
AEI students are ready for the challenge.
After a short morning walk, I join my busmates for a delicious breakfast of pancakes before packing, loading cooking gear, tents, and sleeping bags. By 9am we're on the bus, checking to see that we're not missing anyone, and speculating excitedly about the day ahead. After a short ride, past the stunning red rock typical of southern Utah, we pull into Glen Canyon Dam's parking lot alongside mobile homes and jeeps. A group of experienced student facilitators gathers us together to start our discussion. Then, for three hours, we turn to the Park Service staff.