The Other Guy's Story Isn't Yours
Respect the unseen context.
Principle
You rarely know what someone has survived.
Every person you encounter is carrying a history you did not witness.
Assuming you understand it is how empathy quietly dies.
The Failure Mode
We mistake fragments for the whole story.
When we fill in gaps with our own assumptions, we turn strangers into caricatures - and feel justified doing it.
The Practice (This Week)
- Before judging someone, name three possible explanations besides "they are awful."
- Practice curiosity instead of certainty, especially when someone's behavior irritates you.
Reflection (Optional)
Where do you confuse "different" with "wrong"?
Related Hymn
Hymn II - The Other Guy's Story Ain't Yours
Lesson Cards
Principle
The Other Guy's Story Isn't Yours
You rarely know what someone has survived.
Failure
The Failure Mode
We fill in missing context with our own assumptions - and call it understanding.
Practice
This Week's Practice
Before judging, name three possible explanations besides "they're awful." Choose curiosity once where certainty feels tempting.
Practical wisdom for living decently in a complicated world.