Definition:

The ability to feel what others are feeling and the action of trying to help them with their troubles. 

In short: 

Feel what others feel.

Summary:
What does it mean to be human? Each of us is unique, and since we are part of the same human family, we are also similar. Because we share this incredible journey of life, the good times and the more difficult times, we are never really alone. Everyone has dreams, curiosity, and wonder. We all enjoy friendships, but we also are capable of hurting one another and we get hurt, too. Sometimes we may be sad or scared, but if we try, we can find the courage to move forward. Bottom line: “we are all human together,” so let’s have empathy for one another.  

Lesson Objectives:

1. Students are motivated to look for what they have in common with others, and at the same time, they can identify and appreciate their own uniqueness.  
2. Students are more inclined to practice empathy for others and empathy for themselves. 

Guiding Questions: 

1. When we say you are unique, we mean that there’s no one exactly like you. Take a moment to think about all the people you know. Is there anyone who is exactly like you? 
2. Think about all the people you know again. What’s something you all have in common?
3.  Do you like to learn new things? What’s something you’d like to learn about? Do you think everyone likes to learn new things? 
4. What’s one big dream you have? 
5. Share about something you are curious about. Where could you look or who could you ask to find out more? 
6. Can you remember a time when you hurt someone else’s feelings? What happened and what did you do about it?
7. “I can choose not to fight and instead find a common ground.” What do you think this means? 
8. “I will keep trying to be the best version of me.” What do you think this means? Name three things you can do every day to be the best version of yourself. 
9. Is it easy or hard to say “I’m sorry” when you’ve done something hurtful? For most people it’s hard, but the more you practice apologizing, the easier it is. 
10. Did this book show you that humans are alike in more ways than you thought? Name three behaviors that are examples of the way humans are basically alike.