Empathy

I took some time off after delivering the manuscript for Otherwise. But I've never been far from the topic.

Whether jockeying for space on a vaporetto in Venice or dodging mountain bikers on a hiking trail in the Italian lake district, I've been keenly aware of the need to develop my sense of empathy.

Empathy may be the key to getting along with people who are not like ourselves.

So when I got back, I was pleased to see an article in the New York Times about a Ridgefield, NJ, high school program designed to promote empathy amongst kids whose natural tribe is usually a hard-shelled clique.  

The program, sponsored by a non-profit called Positive Exposure, will be expanded to five more high schools in the fall.  The project is the brainchild of fashion photographer Rick Guidotti. "Our goal is to provide opportunities for students to see beyond differences and embrace our shared humanity," he says.

That's a man who is truly Otherwise.