I see someone say something rude, I decide they are a rude person. Someone arrives late to work, I decide they are unorganized, irresponsible. Until I find out that the person who was rude was once badly taken advantage of under very similar circumstances and aggressive language is now their defence. Until I find out that the person who is late is caring for a dying family member with no support. That puts everything in a different light, doesn’t it? Now I find my compassion.
I’m sure I’m not alone in this. Why do humans so often try to simplify other people based on one act, one characteristic?
Yes, I think actions do speak louder than words. But can a person be defined by one act?
Can I start from a place of compassion without knowing the other person’s backstory?