In a scientific experiment, people may be randomly assigned to different conditions so that the effects of those conditions can be observed. I often view this as a metaphor for the human existence: we are participants in the world, being exposed to different environments and experiences. By recognizing the spectrum of the human experience, we gain appreciation for the positive situations we encounter, as well as feelings of empathy for those who are less fortunate. After all, it is seemingly by chance (or random assignment) that we live under our current conditions. The bottom line: I could have been you, and you could have been me – or any of the other 7+ billion people on the planet.
Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders (www.doctorswithoutborders.org) is an independent, humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical care to people in need all around the world. In their efforts to help those in crisis, MSF reminds us that detrimental boundaries can be broken with empathy.
-Julia
credits
from Songs for Something,
released September 24, 2012
Music and lyrics by Julia Mark
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