Sit with me by the fire

Imagine you and I are camping. We are sitting around the campfire, you on one side - me on the other. We are discussing things. I am telling you what I see from my perspective. I see the fire, you and the stars. It is beautiful. You, on the other hand see the fire, me and a grizzly bear approaching. 

 Stop time

If you came over to my side of the fire, you would see my perspective and you would not appreciate the danger. 

If I came to your side I would see your perspective and I would see the danger. 

There are at least three hundred and sixty seats around this fire. We may share views, we may not. They are all a little different. 

When we interact with folks, we are at a campfire. I always strive to mentally slide around to their side and try to see where they are coming from so I can understand their perspective.

I also work to help them slide to my side and see what I see. 

This brief stopping of time and mentally putting yourself on the other side of the campfire is the easiest way I know how to explain both perspective and how to promote empathy. 

During a pandemic we are both isolated and we interact in ways that are both social and anti-social. I still remember when working with folks - we all share this campfire.