Empathy is the sense that someone feels what we’re feeling, that they “get you.” It’s an emotional state that is absolutely necessary to form the types of healthy relationships that enhance and strengthen our communities. This in turn supports building and maintaining our resiliency.

When we have high levels of empathy towards one another, we tend to feel less hurt, we have an easier time regulating our emotions and behavior, and we can more easily show forgiveness, acceptance, and kindness towards other community members, despite their behaviors towards us. 

Consider exploring these resources for help in fostering this emotion in yourself, as well as in your students.