Empathy is My Super Power
Growing up, I think about the number of times I heard "you're too sensitive" or "you take things too seriously," never quite knowing where to place the emotions that swirled around in my body out of a very real response to words said or actions done to me. Currently, I've tried to turn what once was a dreaded question into a game: "What is your role here?" Following my response of, "oh, I am the Director of DEIB," I simply wait and watch. Within seconds, the energy within the space may shift, body language might change, and facial expressions can alter slightly, and I will know immediately their feelings not only about my role, but unfortunately, also the assumptions that have been made about me. Just as I can feel the thoughts and feelings of those who engage with me, my visceral response to learning about the suffering or unjust treatment of people is just as palpable. But how do you quantify this attunement with humanity? What value is...