Quote from the Book “Roots of Empathy” by Mary Gordon
Nov 4th, 2011 by BK
“…respect for oneself, understanding and compassion for others, and a sense of responsibility for the world, its citizens and its future.”
I love this quote because to me, empathy really does encompass the self, others, and society as a whole. It is not about one over the others. The quote reflects what the Roots of Empathy program is about. In the book, Mary Gordon describes the program that is delivered through the school system – Roots of Empathy lessons are centred around a baby brought into the classroom over multiple sessions as the baby grows.
I do have a certain degree of empathy, but I wonder if it could have been more developed had I been enrolled in the Roots of Empathy program as a kid and learned to be more accepting of myself and of others. Unfortunately, I was not raised in an accepting environment at home or at school. It definitely has its effects, but I am hopeful that as an adult, I will do what I can to become more empathic.