Taylor was motivated to write “Where There Is Love…We Are One” after a career as an educator as well as preparing elementary teachers and reading specialists at the university level. She wants all individuals to respect each other and to look past the differences and find their commonalities.
The book is a short read with beautiful illustrations that showcase the diversity that exists in the world, whether it's in how we look or what we believe. It's a great way to encourage kids and parents to talk about differences in a positive way.
I had a chance to interview her to learn more.
Why did you decide to write this book?
This book brings forward the concept of unity and understanding others in a poetry format through a children’s literature selection. This book will help start the conversation between parents and their children, concerning the ways that we are alike and our differences… always aware of our interconnectedness… ‘where there is love, we are one’...
I am a true believer in looking past outer appearances and looking to the heart of each individual… the love, the gift we’ve come to share…
I have always believed strongly in unity and love for all peoples. These are the basic ideals that inspired me to write this book.
Why is this a message that kids need to hear?
In this world of challenges, division, and differences, there is one concept that unifies us… Love. Children need to hear the message of love and peace and unity. No matter what nationality or religious belief, parents love their children, children love their parents, people love each other, and love feels the same no matter where we live or what language we speak.
This book gives children a very clear look at the ways that we might be different… our clothes, our nationality, the color of our skin, but no matter these differences, Love is the unifying factor, and each of us is responsible to bring this Love and to share this Love in the world.
How can parents encourage their kids to be inclusive?
Parents can encourage children to see the love that binds us and underlies our interactions and acceptance of all people by providing opportunities to interact with individuals who do not mirror their own nationality, social status and/or race. With these interactions will come opportunities to demonstrate our interconnectedness. Spirit/love is everywhere in everything (nature, other people and relationships). As we become aware and notice the ways that we are alike we pay less attention to our differences.
It is my hope that the discussion that would ensue from the sharing of this book will help children and adults to look at the world through the lens of love. Love is the thread that connects us
I am hopeful that my books will guide individuals to see the miracles of love everywhere in their experience. Miracles are a choice … a way of seeing the world. It is a choice to be open to them.
We are living in a very divisive world. Consequently, it is important to find the opportunities to talk with children about and finding the positive in the world… guiding them to experience this higher consciousness, this love, in the world. Even by performing ‘acts of kindness’ or looking for ‘acts of kindness in their everyday experience. We want to look at what connects us rather than what divides us. Together we’re better…
About the author
Marian S. Taylor, EdD, is a retired university professor and author. Her career began at the elementary level where she taught first grade and served as a reading specialist. Taylor has been very involved with her family and with church activities. She is the mother of three grown children and is very proud of her grandchildren. To learn more please visit,www.marianstaylor.com.
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