The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

There is no way I can know what it means to be an African American, but I can try to understand and share those feelings.

There is no way I can know what it's like to be a female, but I can try to understand and share those feelings with a woman.

For me, if it is of importance to you, it is important to me. As long as people can make a conscientious decision to try to understand others, we might have a chance to heal. As long as we retreat into our own camp, the fragmentation will continue.

As a disciple of Jesus' teachings, I noticed he was not someone who retreated to his camp. He reached out to those who the society of his day considered to be less. Whether you believe in Jesus or not, I think someone who chooses to follow this concept will have a better life void of bitterness and anger.

It is easier to just argue our positions that to actually cross the aisle and attempt to show empathy.