Empathy at a distance is almost as difficult as empathy up close. It’s hard to imagine what someone who is not like you, from way over there, is dealing with. They have different beliefs and experiences. And even the person right next to you, whom you think you know so well, is dealing with a story and a situation that you can only guess at.

Empathy is really difficult, but it’s generally worth it. Empathy is the key to establishing connections, building trust, and creating a sense of community.