Some beautiful thoughts...
“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.” Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
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Event first, understanding its meaning after
Why didn't I know this then?
Check regularly to see how far you've come!
A little mathematical story...
I knew nothing!
Before I could think I blurted out, "Because I'm so scared of you"! And promptly burst into tears.
The big man crumbled right in front of me. He sat down with me, his voice became gentle, and we talked about what scared me. We worked on the problems that had been completely beyond my grasp that morning. I didn't fully understand what it was that he had come to understand about me and himself, but I sure liked it.
A breakthrough...
Your understanding makes the world a better place!
Take some peaceful time
One of the best ways to feel some empathy or understanding is to try looking at the problem from another perspective. It’s that old saying "Put yourself in someone else's shoes" coming to life!
Love and understanding are connected
Paul Tournier, To Understand Each Other
When I worked with young children parents would often remark on my patience with them. I would consistently tell them I didn't need patience, as long as I understood. And I still think that holds true.
You don't need words
In these times of great friction and division between folks, it seems that gaining an understanding at least is worth a try. Everyone wants their slice of the big pie. Realistically, this just isn’t going to happen.
So how do you help those less fortunate folks? You can’t fully grasp their situation unless you actually live it. You can be kind. You can donate to worthy causes. But you can never have true understanding unless you’ve walked in their shoes. That’s life. That’s truth. That’s experience.