I used to work in downtown Seattle. Onward lucky joy. On the way home, going up 1st Ave toward my apartment in Queen Anne, I would see lost-soul street people and try to put myself in their place. More recently, in Mexico City, I've done the same.
I don't know if this is empathy, really not sure. I was raised with a Mom who taught us to remember that your circumstances in life are based a great deal on an accident of birth. Though I'm not what you'd call a religious man, I do remember that there but for the grace of God go I.
It doesn't always work for me. Sometimes I'm in a bad mood, impatient, etc., but I am pretty successful at keeping it real in this regard. I've lived on the edge (although Michigan seems like a dream to me now), rode a few trains (but mostly buses) and have shared food and drink with strangers - and they with me.
And now that I've reached the rambling part of my comment I should get on my scooter and go - and say many thanks for the article. I shall try your hack at the first opportunity. You've helped me remember something that shouldn't be forgotten.
How to have empathy for anyone
I used to work in downtown Seattle. Onward lucky joy. On the way home, going up 1st Ave toward my apartment in Queen Anne, I would see lost-soul street people and try to put myself in their place. More recently, in Mexico City, I've done the same.
I don't know if this is empathy, really not sure. I was raised with a Mom who taught us to remember that your circumstances in life are based a great deal on an accident of birth. Though I'm not what you'd call a religious man, I do remember that there but for the grace of God go I.
It doesn't always work for me. Sometimes I'm in a bad mood, impatient, etc., but I am pretty successful at keeping it real in this regard. I've lived on the edge (although Michigan seems like a dream to me now), rode a few trains (but mostly buses) and have shared food and drink with strangers - and they with me.
And now that I've reached the rambling part of my comment I should get on my scooter and go - and say many thanks for the article. I shall try your hack at the first opportunity. You've helped me remember something that shouldn't be forgotten.
I celebrate any thoughtful piece written about empathy. This is one. It is the great balm the nation needs.
My family calls me Malfoy (harry potter reference) because i lack in this department....good hack