Fear of other humans—those outside our immediate tribe—may be a built-in human trait. Maybe we translate that fear into emotions such as anger or loathing or snobbery.
A great antidote is to get outside your tribal boundaries—geographical or social.
I think of this when I attend conferences. Even just being in California from the Midwest I learn that there are many nice Californians who are not all whacko.
But I have three new friends, better term than contacts I suppose, from Chennai in India. Engineers and business people. Friendly. Talking technical and business opportunities.
There are always interesting people to meet from many countries of South America and Europe. Talked with a couple of people from Australia.
But even the guys from Mexico who repaired my patio were interesting to talk with and learn how they live and where they are from.
I can look to Jesus for inspiration. He and his closest followers were Galilean. Whereas people from Judah, the southern desert, were more insular, Galileans were on the major trade route. They saw people of many races and tribes passing through. There was Jesus and the Samaritan woman. And Jesus and the Syro-Phoenecian woman. And others. And from a teacher who was supposed to (by tradition) remain aloof from any non-Jew.
People to be feared do exist. Exploring outside your comfort zone can open your eyes to good people of many cultures with whom deep conversations can happen. Experience enriches your life.
Faith Venture 
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