Empathy In the Community
vs. callousness
Sensing the emotions of others
To practice Empathy, I will: 
- See things from the point of view of others.
- Imagine how I would feel in the situation of others.
- Assume the best reasons for others’ actions.
- Look for common traits with others.
- Appreciate the differences of others.
Nurturing Empathy
by Mary Andres Russell
Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, begins with listening. And empathy is a cornerstone of effective communication, strong relationships, and a thriving society.
How many good listeners do you know? Most people can count the number on one hand. Really great listeners are a rare find. While listening and empathy come naturally to some people, here are several ways we can nurture these skills:
- Begin by recognizing your own emotions. By understanding our own feelings, we can better grasp the emotional landscapes of others. This self-awareness allows us to identify with the experiences of others, laying the groundwork for empathy to flourish.
- Before entering a meeting or discussion, set the intention to actively listen. By approaching others with a genuine desire to learn and understand, we open ourselves to new perspectives and broaden our capacity for compassion. This openness allows us to build bridges of connection across differences.
- Give the other person undivided attention, suspending your own thoughts and judgments to fully absorb their words and emotions. Often we listen in order to reply rather than to truly understand.
- Keep the focus on them. Many times, we turn the conversation quickly to our similar experience, thinking we are relating to their story. Resist the temptation to make it about “me.” Instead, make it about them.
In a world often marked by division and conflict, empathy stands as a beacon of hope. It is the bridge that connects us, the language of understanding, and the foundation for a more compassionate and harmonious society.
The Links below will take you to Resources you can use with the family or within community organizations
to teach the Character Quality of Empathy.
The following activities are related to dates this month and can relate to any character quality or good character in general.
January Character All Month
See NationalToday, AndTodayIs, or DaysOfTheYear for more information on these and other holidays to celebrate this month. Day in Jan 2024 Holiday How to Commemorate with Character 1 Universal Hour of Peace The main idea of the #UniversalHourOfPeace is to start...
Valentine’s Day Activity
Give each person a paper on which has been drawn a large heart (see download link) or have them draw a large heart on a piece of paper making sure there is room to write both inside and outside the heart. On the inside have them write 3 things that other people can do...
New Year Activity
It’s a new year, a time for new beginnings. Play Start Stop Continue. Each person picks a behavior they want to Start in the New Year, a behavior they want to Stop in the New Year and a behavior they want to Continue in the New Year. Focus on habits and routines that...
Our other Pillars have resources that can be used in a community or family setting.
Visit Empathy in School>>
Activities
No Matter How You Say It
Curriculum Connections
Croskey’s Corner
Visit Empathy in Business>>
Teambuilding
Power Up with Character
Interview Questions
Adult Business Books
Visit Empathy in Faith>>
Christian Family Activity
Bible Verses
Christian Poster
Prayer and Reflections
Archived Resources