Loss of empathy
might well be the most enduring and deep-
cutting scar of all, the silent blade of an unseen
enemy, tearing at our hearts and stealing more
than our strength. Stealing our will, for what are
we without empathy? What manner of joy might
we find in our lives if we cannot understand the
joys and pains of those around us, if we cannot
share in a greater community.
- R.A. Salvatore, The Silent Blade
to the challenges of others and makes
them willing to put in the effort to
make the world a better place? How
can we foster a global society where
people are motivated by empathy,
mutual respect and interdependence
rather than competition, individual-
ism and nationalism?
By consciously choosing to recog-
nize, understand and empathize with
the circumstances of other human
beings, we begin to level the playing
field for all people. This action sets the
stage for trust, justice, and personal
growth. Dr. Brené Brown, research
professor at the University of Hous-
ton Graduate College of Social Work
believes: “It is this empathetic con-
nection to others that gives purpose
to our lives… a way to be our better
selves. Becoming a compassionate and
empathetic human being starts with a
desire to do so.”
Empathy can begin with a simple
conversation between two people,
each willing to listen to the other, to
be curious about the other’s circum-
stances. Pema Chodron, Buddhist
teacher and author says, “We don’t set
out to change the world. We set out to
wonder how other people are doing!”
Yet, it takes courage to be open and
curious, to be vulnerable. “Vulner-
ability is the willingness to show up
and do something without guarantees
of the outcome,” claims Brown. By
standing up and being courageous
enough to be a listening ear, to bear
witness, to be a willing advocate, or to
provide an alternative opportunity,
it is possible to create very different
outcome for others. Brown goes on to
say, ”With courage, love and empathy
we humans can do anything!”
By fine-tuning our sensitivity to
all of humanity, we will undoubtedly
IMAGINE l SPRING 2016 5