Do you notice what it feels like when you are hungry? When you get that nagging grumbly feeling in your tummy, and all you can think about are things like peanut butter sandwiches, carrot sticks, crackers, etc.? Do you notice what it feels like when you hurt yourself, such as when you cut your finger or bruise your shin? How about when you are feeling angry, such as when you miss the bus; happy, such as when you are opening presents at your birthday; sad, such as when a friend moves away; or playful, such as when you are at a park. Do you notice these emotions?
Being aware of all your feelings is an important step toward being aware of how others feel many of the same things you do.
For instance if you saw somebody fall down and bruise their arm, you might remember how it felt when the same thing happened to you. You might even wince, being reminded of how much it hurt. Recognising feelings like your own in others is known as empathy. In remembering your own feelings of pain, you might even remember how you had wanted someone to help you up off the ground. You are then in a position to give what you had wanted to be given. You can demonstrate to others how you want to be treated. So, you may ask the fallen person if they want your help in getting up, and if they agree, do so.
It is much easier to be tolerant of people's differences when you can also recognise where they are the same. We all share the same sorts of feelings.
Copyright © 2002 March 08, Katherine Phelps