Values Quotes – William Shakespeare on Sympathy

Todays quote is from William Shakespeare, the famous English poet and playwright who is often called England’s national poet.

A beautiful quote from Shakespeare is:
“Love comforteth like sunshine after rain.”

As all poetry is open to interpretation, I believe this speaks to the value of sympathy.

As a differentiating value, Sympathy means to show compassion or empathy; be understanding of; or provide support.

When someone has lost a loved one, had their house destroyed in a fire, or their world appears to be falling apart, many of us aren’t sure how actually we should respond. Do we openly talk about the pain they’re in? Do we join them in the rain of disappear that they’re feeling? Or do we quietly just jump in and help along. Maybe we could bring them some food for dinner. Or help them clean up the kitchen or their yard.

The truth is all of our responses can be appropriate, at the right time. And Shakespeare provides the key: love. When we feel the desire to show sympathy let love be your guide. For in time, it is through our expressions of love that everyone can again experience sunshine after rain.

 

Today’s value was selected from the “Appreciation-Kindness” category, based on the e-book Developing Your Differentiating Values.