When did we stop being children? As adults, we're not supposed to be childish. But there are some child-like qualities I wish I had not lost along this path of life.

I didn't arrive at this revelation on my own. A child led me.

On vacation, while in the pool, a little boy, probably no more than 4 years old, paddled over to another youngster about the same age and said, "Be my friend."

The second child immediately responded, "OK." Off they paddled with their waterwings and a new found friendship.

Ah, if only it were that easy in an adult's life! Be my friend. OK.

Somewhere along the way, adults lose that type of unconditional acceptance.

I'm guilty.

Do you dress like me? Do you talk like me? Are we of the same economic status? Do you believe in the same political agenda as I do? Do you hate Kyle Busch in NASCAR?

You do?

OK, Be my friend.

Our world is diverse. Green Local Schools, specifically Linda Martin and Donna Plunkett, are working on a diversity program. Good for them!

Green is a desirable place to live. A lot of different folks want to raise their families here. People from more than 25 countries are settled here in Green. They bring a wealth of experience, culture and history with them.

Through the diversity program, maybe we can head off the teens who think you have to dress like them or have the same body size to be friends. Let's open their horizons now.

Before they get to be adults, like me, who have to learn this lesson from a 4 year old.

Want to be friends?

OK.