In the classic novel “To Kill a Mockingbird,” protagonist Atticus Finch teaches his children that, “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view … until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it." Finch is teaching empathy.

Sympathy is a feeling of compassion, sorrow or pity for the hardship that another person encounters.  For example, "I am sad that you are suffering."   Another example:  "I feel badly that you find it difficult to be the new student in the class."

Empathy is putting yourself in the shoes of another.  For example, "I feel your suffering".  "I know it is not easy to be the new person in the class because I faced the same situation myself".

Why is empathy an important skill in today's world?  There is an increase in diversity as well as an increase in globalization.  People you encounter may come from different cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds.  By showing empathy and putting yourself in their shoes, you build relationships, trust, tolerance and mutual understanding.