Walking in someone else’s shoes

This is the key to empathy. When we know how someone was raised, what they were taught, and what they have been through, we can understand their struggle. Of course, we are left only to imagine. But it is possible when we learn, are curious, watch, and listen—we can imagine better. If we do not take the time to learn, perhaps the next best thing we can do is assume the best. Give the benefit of the doubt. And exercise patience.

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… until you climb inside his skin and walk around in it.” — Harper Lee, To Kill A Mockingbird