Why we fail to act with compassion …

Paul wrote in Romans 12:15, “Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.”

The instruction there, put another way, is this: be empathetic.

Why is this so important that it’s included in scripture?

Because when we fail to be empathetic, we fail to act with compassion.

Conversely, look at what can happen when we DO empathize with others, and that empathy nurtures compassion that moves us to act. This is a true story:

In 1998, Ryan Hreljac was a six-year-old boy living in Kemptville, Ontario, Canada. During a lesson at school, Ryan’s teacher explained that many children in Africa had to walk long distances to fetch water, and even then, the water was often dirty and unsafe to drink. The teacher mentioned that $70 was enough to build a well that could provide clean water to an entire village.

This fact struck Ryan deeply. At six years old, he couldn’t fathom a world where people lacked access to something as basic as clean water. He went home and told his parents he wanted to help. Ryan’s parents were supportive but thought it would be a fleeting interest. However, Ryan was determined.

Ryan started doing extra chores around the house, like vacuuming and cleaning, and he even skipped treats and toys to save money. It took him four months to raise the $70. When he approached a local organization, WaterCan (now part of WaterAid Canada), he learned that the cost of building a well was actually closer to $2,000. Instead of being discouraged, Ryan doubled down, enlisting the help of friends, family, and his community to raise the additional funds.

With the help of donations, Ryan eventually raised enough money to build his first well in Angolo Primary School in Uganda. In 1999, at just seven years old, Ryan traveled to Uganda to see the well in person. There, he met the children who benefited from the clean water his efforts had brought. It was a life-changing experience for Ryan, as he realized how much of an impact one act of empathy could have.

Ryan didn’t stop with one well. Inspired by his trip to Uganda, he founded the Ryan’s Well Foundation in 2001. The foundation focuses on providing access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education in developing countries. Ryan continued to speak at schools and events, encouraging others — especially young people — to take action and make a difference.

When we allow ourselves to push hurriedly through life, without making time to foster empathy for others, we fail to act with compassion. But Ryan’s story is a testament to how empathizing with others can grow into something extraordinary.

Would the people in your life describe you as someone who is empathetic?

Scotty