Empathy and its Importance
Empathy is the understanding how others feel as well as sharing their feelings. It is a virtue that is not innate but is nurtured with the aim of assisting the needy in the society. Through different experiences in life, I have learned to practice empathy.
Expanding Perspectives through Cultural Understanding
Besides, I have been able to change my perspective on different aspects such as culture, religion, and personality. Through reading books, listening to music, and watching movies, I have been able to learn much about being an empathetic person.
The Power of Music: "We Are The World"
For instance, the song "We Are The World" by Michael Jackson showed that he still thought of and cared for the people of Africa. Although the living conditions in the United States and Africa are slightly different, Michael Jackson showed me that I should be empathetic even to people who are not in my social class. The same song by Jackson was sung by a group of world singers in Haiti when the country was hit by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Nearly 200,000 people died in Haiti as a result of the earthquake. The unity of the world singers taught me that I should be empathetic to people who have been affected by a disaster. I learned that I should be empathetic to the disaster victims even if they come from an impoverished nation such as Haiti.
Movie Insights: "The Kingsman, The Golden Circle"
The "The Kingsman, The Golden Circle" movie produced in 2018 depicted the villain character Poppy Adams taking advantage of drug users. The movie taught me that I should be empathetic to other people even when they are in a desperate situation such as indulgence in substance abuse.
Breaking Down Barriers: "Together As One"
The song "Together As One" by Lucky Dube condemned discrimination against people of color. The song taught me that I should be empathetic and have a positive perspective towards people with different skin color.
