I recently watched the movie “The Way Back.” A man struggling with alcoholism gets an opportunity to coach a boy’s basketball team, leading him on a path of recovery and healing.
The first part would have you believe that his addiction ruined his life, but as the story unfolds, you learn that one year prior, his 10-year-old son died of cancer.
“No wonder he’s drinking like he is,” I said to myself, my initial judgment switching to empathy.
First impressions are usually the tip of the iceberg. Our hurts, hang-ups, and baggage are what floats beneath the surface. There is a reason people are the way they are.
It’s unrealistic for us to get to know everyone’s story, but there is a way to incorporate empathy for others. Want to know how?
By asking the question, “what if?”
The next time you find yourself having an opinion about someone (we all do), ask yourself some questions:
What if her husband died in a car accident?
What if their dad used to beat them?
What if he was recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer?
You get it, right?
Do you have any thoughts on what might help increase empathy towards others?
