Heart-to-Heart
What is empathy?
The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.
Teaching point: Empathy is the skill of recognizing and connecting with someone else's emotions. It goes beyond just hearing or seeing what someone is experiencing; empathy is about genuinely imagining yourself in their situation to understand how they might feel.
What is gratitude?
A feeling of appreciation for what one has.
Teaching Point: Gratitude is broader and more enduring. It reflects a deeper sense of appreciation for the positive things in life, beyond individual acts. Gratitude can be an attitude or mindset, involving an awareness of life's blessings—even during tough times. For example, feeling grateful for family, health, or experiences may not be tied to any specific action.
What is thankfulness?
Thankfulness is often a response to something specific, like a favor or gift. It's a way of acknowledging and appreciating something someone has done for you.
In short, thankfulness is a more immediate, often temporary response to a kind act, while gratitude is a more sustained and deeper outlook on life and the things we value.
Provide an example of empathy in a peer interaction.
Listening to a friend who is upset, sad, hurt, down-bad, crashed-out, and offering support.
*use teacher discretion.
Give an example of expressing gratitude.
Saying a deep thanks to a person who you are deeply grateful for.
For ex, saying a deep thanks to a person to let them know how appreciative you are to have a person like them in your life. This is an expression of gratitude.
Teaching Point: Gratitude is a more sustained and deeper outlook on life and the things we value.
Name a cultural practice that emphasizes thankfulness.
Thanksgiving celebrations here in the U.S.
Why is empathy important in relationships?
It helps build trust and connection with others.
Teaching Point: Empathy plays a big role in building meaningful connections, as it allows people to feel seen and understood. By practicing empathy, we can improve our relationships, support others, and create a more welcoming environment.
What does the old phrase "Count your blessings" mean in your own words?
Teaching Point: The phrase "count your blessings" means to focus on the positive things in your life and appreciate what you have, rather than focusing on what you lack or what’s going wrong.
How can you show thankfulness to your teachers?
By expressing appreciation through notes or verbal thanks.
How can you show empathy towards someone from a different background?
By actively listening to their experiences and trying to understand their perspective. By not judging them. By treating them fairly.
True or False: Practicing gratitude can lower levels of stress and increase overall happiness by helping people focus on the positive aspects of life.
TRUE
Teaching point: Regular gratitude practice has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, while also enhancing overall happiness and emotional well-being.
Why is it important to teach thankfulness to younger generations?
It helps create a sense of appreciation and respect for others.