The Following was contributed by Katherine Orgill of R.E.A.C.H. :
Henry David Thoreau says, “could a greater miracle take place than for us to look through each other’s eyes for an instant?”
The year 2020 has without a doubt been filled with several unexpected events and painful situations. In times like these, it is not only important to stay calm, but it is important to be empathetic to others. Covid-19 has affected everyone in different and unique ways that others may or may not be able to relate to.
Daniel Goleman explains three ways in which we can sense empathy. Cognitively (understanding what someone else is thinking), emotionally (how an individual is feeling), and compassionately (acknowledging a person’s situation and feeling compelled to help them).
Everyone needs support in times of crisis. Many times, we find ourselves wondering how we can help others when we are struggling to help ourselves. Being empathetic is an excellent place to start especially because it doesn’t take a large gesture to be empathetic. Lending a listening ear or even sharing a word of encouragement or advice can be life changing.
How are some ways that you can show empathy to others in your daily life?
Henry David Thoreau
Goleman, Daniel. “Three Kinds of Empathy: Cognitive, Emotional, Compassionate.” Daniel Goleman, 12 June 2007, www.danielgoleman.info/three-kinds-of-empathy-cognitive-em…/.