Meaningful experiences

Sometimes we get caught up in our fast-paced society and don’t take the time to know others honestly. It’s important to remember that everyone we meet has a unique life story. Even if we meet someone we don’t immediately like, it’s essential to keep an open mind and give them a chance.

As Abraham Lincoln once said, “I don’t like that person. I need to get to know him better.”

Compassion means seeing others as vulnerable yet dignified human beings. It takes humility to open ourselves up to new experiences and people, and to put aside our prejudices. We should strive to understand others’ beliefs and feelings, even if we don’t necessarily agree with them.

It’s also important to respect others, even those who may not be able to communicate or understand due to conditions like dementia. Everyone deserves respect and acknowledgment.

By opening our hearts and making ourselves vulnerable, we open ourselves up to meaningful human experiences.

As philosopher Martin Buber once said, “Man becomes an I through a You.”

We indeed come into our own when we connect with others.