As we drove by the cemetery, Dad slowed down and looked in the car parked at the curb. “It’s him,” I heard him say as if he was speaking to himself. He took the next turn and went around the block. The car was still there. Dad slowly brought us to a stop directly behind this quiet sentry.
“Stay here. I’ll be right back,” and with those words, he slid out the door and walked to the passenger side door – leaning in the window. I was scared. My Dad never did anything like this. What would make him just stop and talk to this man?
It seemed an eternity before he returned to the car. As he started the engine, I looked at him – his face expressionless. We just sat there – engine humming – other traffic going by without a care – the wind blowing through the open windows. Finally, I had to break the silence, “Dad?”
As if startled, he looked at me. His hand slowly settling on my shoulder. “He’s a friend. His son was killed in Vietnam and buried in this cemetery a couple of days ago. At a time like this, a man just needs another man to listen – to hear him speak his heart – no words, no judgment, no explanation – just listen.”
He put the car in gear and checked for traffic as he guided us back on the road. As we picked up speed, he gave me a quick glance.
“Never forget this.”
Wow very touching Len. Powerful and tender at the same time.
Thanks, Larry. I encourage you to read the associated article mentioned to Jonathan in the above comment if you have not read it before. It is a true life story.
You’re the best! Extremely moving…..Great work, short and powerful
Johnny – Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement.
LEN, your Dad’s greatness is shown by his wise words and action. Listening with empathy is perhaps the most difficult thing we as human beings can do.
In almost 50 years of service involved with humanitarian programs I have finally come to understand the full power of listening to those in pain and anguish, and emotional upheavals. Empathy is more than just feeling pity or sorrow for someone — it’s feeling it with them. It is powerful and meaningful and shows others we are there for them. Empathy communicates to the person hurting that he or she is not alone.
This is what we ought to do when someone is in anguish – we respond to the plea of their heart by giving them your heart. When it comes to empathy, you and I can do the same — by choosing to limit our words and instead feel with the people who are hurting.
Platitudes of almost all kinds are not helpful and can perhaps be extremely irritating to hear. Empathy is one of the most important skills we can practice in life.
“Empathy is like giving someone a psychological hug.” – Lawrence J
Jonathan – Thank you so much. If you enjoyed this short story, then you may enjoy my full article on empathy:
https://www.bizcatalyst360.com/empathy-brings-healing/
And thank you for adding your wisdom to an important discussion on helping others in their time of need.
Jonathan – Empathy – so important when we are trying to help someone facing the difficult times in their lives. Here is another article you many find worthy of reading: Empathy Brings Healing (you will have to look it up manually – tried to create a hyperlink but could not get it to work). Thanks for adding your wisdom to this discussion.
Jonathan – Thanks – your comments added to this story.