Take a moment to look around your store or building. You’ll see a diverse group of associates: men and women of different ages, backgrounds and ethnicities.

We employ people from all over the world — just like many of our customers are from other parts of the world. We can better serve our customers internally and externally when we learn about other cultures.

Throughout the years as I’ve visited stores, I’ve met people at Publix who didn’t speak English. They learned it while working at Publix. (If you want to learn more about educational opportunities, read Adult Education Opportunities are Up for Grabs.)

I’ve also met associates from other countries who may miss their birth countries but believe they’re fortunate. They appreciate the job they have and the country they now live in. Many had never seen grocery stores like Publix or the opportunities they have here, whether it’s to better their family, advance their education or something more. But most importantly, by joining the Publix family, they have the chance to own a company — and that’s something none of us should take for granted.

We should recognize and celebrate the diversity we see in our associates and customers. We should learn about the different backgrounds we’re exposed to daily when we go to work.

Take some time to read the Associates from Other Countries Share a World of Experience article in this issue and watch Publix News Live on www.publix.org to hear from some of our international associates directly.

Associates like these are just one more reason we’re a unique company and a great place to work. We recognize, accept and celebrate the differences among us.