Are We Losing Our Humanity? A Call to Remember Empathy

The Reflection

Before I start with what I have to say, I want to clarify: everything I put down here are questions and doubts currently living in my mind. I am not a professional psychologist or sociologist; these thoughts come simply from my mind and my heart.

I also don’t want to make this post about politics or religion. It might seem that way at first, but I will try my best to explain what I am feeling and thinking without falling into those rigid categories.

The Big Question: What is Happening to Humanity?

Are we losing our humane side?

Time and again, media and social media show us the worst of our society. Don't get me wrong—of course, there are good things happening out there, but at this moment, all I can see is that evil does exist. Evil is something that is morally wrong, wicked, or destructive. It describes actions, people, or forces that intentionally cause harm, suffering, or misery and sit in direct opposition to goodness.

The Paradox of Power and Need

This is what I struggle to understand. It feels way above my pay grade, but how is it that when we see thousands suffering, some can only worry about themselves? Especially those in positions of power. How can someone reject help sent to those in need, simply because of their own agendas? Where is the empathy in leadership? And, on the other side, where is the gratefulness of those who receive it?

Why do I feel like the powers that be want us to lose hope? When they act with such disregard, it makes the rest of us want to stop caring altogether. But that is the wrong path to take. Somewhere, there are people who are grateful, who do need the help, and who are still hoping for better days.

Keeping the Spirit Alive

This is where I get a bit spiritual. I must confess that I firmly believe in evilness, in the lack of caring, loving and ungratefulness, and I sometimes fear that evil is winning—that ungratefulness and a lack of empathy are becoming the norm.

It is easy for them to plant seeds of doubt and fear, to mark our differences and divide us. It leaves us at a crossroads: do we stop caring to protect ourselves, or do we continue to care despite the danger?

I know there is good out there. It is not all black and white; there is so much grey in between. But I refuse to let hope die. This post isn't intended to bring anyone down. It’s an invitation to start thinking, analyzing, and looking around to see how we can raise hope, joy, and happiness. If you can help, do it—not because you want to gain something, but because you feel it in your heart.

Goodness isn't gone; I believe it is just asleep, waiting for us to wake it up and let it rise. Don’t let your spirit be broken. Be a ray of sunshine whenever you can. As I said not everything is black and white and emotions can take over, but be mindful and grateful whenever is possible.

The advise, of course, is for me too as I sometimes get lost and loose hope in humanity, but then I try to remember that that is the plan of bad people, make you loose hope, so I try again, try to focus and find that hope.

Also, I know it is easier said then done, but it is possible.

A Final Thought on Empathy

Lastly, let’s remember the word empathy: the ability to understand another person's thoughts and feelings from their point of view, and to emotionally resonate with what they are going through. Just be careful—sometimes people use this word to justify the wrong actions of others. There is a thin line there, but we must stay mindful.

I hope I made my point. Don’t lose your humanity. Peace and love for all.