There's been a lot in the news lately about humans and other species being wired for empathy. At our basic core, I believe that. As children, I definitely believe that. Until the ego finds a home.
Today I watched a program on one of my favorite composers, Stephen Sondheim. He had a wretched childhood. A mother who severely lacked balance, most likely from her own childhood problems. In her later years, she messaged a letter to Stephen just before she had heart surgery. In the letter she told him once again, that she had only one regret.
"That I gave birth to you."
How tragic for Stephen, the musical genius, to hear that. How much more tragic that she actually felt and said that. Again.
Stephen is truly wired for empathy. He sees himself foremost as a teacher. Listens with kindness, compassion. Inspires. Even as a young woman, I loved his music. Especially, Send In The Clowns sung by Barbra Streisand.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnwJ5KIcKX4
Maybe some day I will meet him. He'd get an instant hug.
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