THE IMPORTANCE OF EMPATHY

A value that's important to understand during these times of uncertainty is empathy. The overall definition of empathy, as stated in the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is “the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experience of another.” However, I like to think of it as putting yourself in another person’s shoes. You take the perspective of someone else. If you are empathetic, you have the ability to understand the emotions of others and what their situation might be. This idea is crucial to restoring peace to America and the rest of the world.

First let's look at these two basic examples where empathy is seen.

#1- There are two childhood best friends, Mary & Elena, who always wondered who would get engaged first. And Elena’s boyfriend, Samuel, proposed! When Mary heard this, she was elated, and couldn’t wait for her friend’s wedding. She felt the same amount of excitement as Elena.

#2- Your friend failed their Algebra test, which was a huge part of their grade. You did fine, but remember what it was like to fail, so you make an empathetic statement like ”I’m so sorry, I understand how you must be feeling right now, ” and comfort them.

These seem like pretty standard situations, but now think about how empathy can be applied to social justice issues. The possibilities are endless!

We are witnessing a huge black lives matter movement, and this special value could ultimately be all the difference. Wondering how? It's because if everyone were to be empathetic towards the feelings of African-American people in America, they could use their understanding of this point of view to try to change something. Actually, imagine if all the racist, homophobic, sexist, and narrow-minded people in the world could empathize. Everyone would be treated fairly and society could be just & peaceful. This little kid idea of being aware of others thoughts and emotions could be the salvation of our corrupted country. By being able to understand one another's struggles, we can better unite to change what is wrong.

Question: If you all, the readers, could get rid of one type of discrimination (race, class, religion, etc…), which one would it be and why?