This came up in my social media memories. I feel it is worth sharing again.

Yesterday at work a Madonna song came on the overhead music station. I told my coworkers I saw Madonna on her first tour and The Beastie Boys were the opening act. My boss made a face and remarked it was an unusual combination. Madonna is a pop artist, and The Beastie Boys are a rap group. I agreed with him, but noted Madonna got her start in New York City and that is where the Beastie Boys were from. They all knew each other, so she took them on tour with her. It was an opportunity for them to work and put themselves in front of people who might not have otherwise given their music a chance. Three years later, the Beastie Boys had a breakthrough album “Licensed to Ill” hit the charts and the song “Fight for Your Right to Party” was all over the radio airwaves and MTV.

Because someone is different than you, it doesn’t mean you can’t respect each other and be friends or colleagues. And if you alienate someone for that reason, you could miss out on not only learning and growing, but doors opening for you.