What's your empathy quotient like? How do you empathize with people? I thought of this as I spoke to a very empathetic person recently. He demonstrated sincere empathy as I relayed a tough situation. There's nothing like a good dose of empathy when you're experiencing a tough situation.
As I thought about a loved one who recently faced a cavalcade of challenging experiences, I wondered if I was empathetic enough. I need to remember that this individual will not be able to act as usual because her challenge level is high right now. She needs space, time, care, and empathy.
There are times in life when we face little challenge and have a lot to give, and then there are times when we face a lot of challenge and have less to give. That's the way life is, and that's why empathy is a critical element when it comes to living well.
As I think about elevating empathy, I'm reminded that before we deal with anyone, it's good to think about where they are at and what they are experiencing. We have to be sensitive to people's experiences at the moment. Also, so often empathy involves simply listening and being there for another person. Mostly, people have to find their own peaceful resolutions to issues, but to know people are there to support them helps a lot.
I will think more about empathy in the days to come.