South Africans share many values, but we also have differing views on other values. This is not just a local phenomenon and happens all over the world. Human beings share many values, but human beings also differ on other values. Many of these differences stem from our cultural heritages and upbringing.

Some examples of values, or preferences we may have, that can be different amongst South Africans, are:

• I have my own, personal opinion about a matter, while you may feel that the opinion of the group you belong to is more important than your own. For example, when voting in an election, my personal opinion of who to vote for is important – not that of my group. Some people may feel differently about this.
• I feel private enterprise will provide economic growth, you may feel the state has the dominant role to play in economic growth. For example, under normal conditions, leaving private enterprise to start and grow businesses as they see fit is a quick and efficient way to grow the economy to the benefit of all South Africans. But when a situation of national importance or crisis exists it could be better for the state to direct the concerted efforts of all South Africans to find a solution.
• I insist on my privacy, while you may accept that your extended family is more important and may invade your own privacy most of the time.
• I like to become my best self by being allowed the freedom to do so, you may feel it is more important that the freedom of individuals be limited in order for all of us to become more equal. For example, allowing South Africans to live and study where they want in order for them to develop their potential to the best of their ability but, on the other hand, limiting what you may spend of your own money through taxation, in order to provide more equal opportunities to less privileged South Africans.
• I prefer to appoint an employee because of his skills, you may prefer to appoint an employee because he is a relative.
• I am more task oriented, you are more relationship oriented at work. Both of these approaches are important depending on the situation.
• I prefer a slower pace of life, you prefer to live in the fast lane. Taking your time allows you to appreciate life and the people you share it with, but living in the fast lane makes you accomplish goals quicker with more material rewards. Neither approach is always the best – it will depend.

If we understand what other South Africans value and why it can be different from how we were brought up and value things, it will help us as a nation to be more tolerant and forgiving towards each other. Because it is not because I am right and you are wrong, but because both of us are usually right but in different ways. Perhaps I can be willing to consider that your approach in one particular situation could be better than mine (instead of just slavishly following how I was brought up) and in return you can do the same for me in another. In this way we can work out a new way to cohabitate and, perhaps, even find a better overall approach to life. 

You obey the law of Christ when you offer each other a helping hand. If you think you are better than others, when you really aren’t, you are wrong. Do your own work well, and then you will have something to be proud of. But don’t compare yourself with others. We each must carry our own load. – Galatians 6:2‭-‬5 CEV

honor your father and mother, and love those around you as you love yourself. – Matthew 19:19 TPT