Growing up, I was always taught to show kindness and to treat people the way I would want to be treated. That lesson has stayed with me because it is something that I deeply value.
I believe that many of the problems we face in society today come from the lack of love, compassion and understanding we as people show to one another. The reality is, every single person has experienced life differently. Our cultures, beliefs, values, backgrounds, and personal experiences all play shape who we are and influencing the choices we make. Because of that, we should never assume we understand someone just based on their appearance, behavior, or the circumstances they are under.
No one deserves to be treated as less than human because they are different from us. Behind every action that somebody does is a reason and many situations run way deeper than what we can see on the outside. People often carry silent battles, pain, trauma, or struggles that others know nothing about. Which is why the act of empathy matters so much. As a society, we need to do a better job of showing it.
Caption: Me and My Sister.
You never truly know what someone else may be going through. That person could easily be you. A small act of kindness, respect, or understanding can make a bigger difference in someone’s life. More than we may ever realize.
Caption: You know I stay fly! True to this not new to this. All photos by Vanessa Ortiz.
