The distinction between empathetic and sympathetic is so important to building relationships that accumulate into strong interactive communities that work to make the individuals in those communities stronger. Sympathy is only valuable in a general way. Like charity, it has its place, but it can’t drive sustainable change in human relationships.
This animated clip features Dr. Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work, providing some quick insights into the difference between sympathy and empathy, and explaining why empathy is much more meaningful.
Myriad Ways 