In my country six religions are officially recognized: Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Confucianism. But beyond this list, there is another important aspect that is not printed on the ID card: tolerance. This tolerance thrives amidst differences, in everyday life, far from big debates or long speeches.
I remember one Sunday morning in our small town. A friend of mine, who shares my religion, accompanied another friend to worship at a new church in our town. Interestingly, my friend of my religion chose to wait patiently outside the church.
"I'll just wait here," he said casually as he sat on his motorbike.
"Why don't you go home first?" I asked.
"Ah, it's so much trouble going back and forth," he replied with a smile.
So he waited—without any discomfort or desire to rush—throughout the service. There was no question or debate about which religion was correct; it was just the act of accompanying a friend.
After the service, the two of them continued their journey by motorbike toward the highlands. They enjoy the gentle breeze, warm tea, and share laughter in simple moments. Tolerance is not always about words, but about understanding and respecting each other.
