However, I wanted more for my children. I wanted them to understand that the world is diverse, and that diversity is reason for celebration. I wanted them to realize that each person has the potential to bring wonder or darkness into their lives. It wasn't a religious thing, or a philosophical position. Now this lesson is muddled with other people's biases, bigotry and hate.
Witnesses can be honest or they can lie, and perjure themselves.
So I teach by example. I point out people we know and talk about the contributions they have made to our lives. I tell them about others who have tried or succeeded in one way to hurt us. It's not an easy lesson, not any more. But it's the most important one they'll receive.