Empathy is a universal gift that binds us to one another in profound ways. It’s not just about feeling pity or sympathy for someone; it’s about diving deep into their world, truly understanding their pain, and extending a hand of support. This was brought home to me in a deeply personal way when I helped a cherished friend, Priya, through a particularly challenging chapter in her life. This journey not only tested my capacity for compassion but also illuminated the transformative power of empathy in forging genuine connections.