Lack of empathy

In dealings with many individuals in crisis, we have come close to defining the core issue. They often face a common enemy: a lack of empathy from those around them. A genuine incapacity to identify with or understand another individual's emotional state. It's the one characteristic that connects almost all those in need.

The situation can easily be reversed by simply helping each other by talking and listening, by bringing a small gift, or writing loving notes, and showing genuine interest. We learn to bring a message of hope, to hold not only ourselves but those around us to a higher standard.