Empathy In The Film 'Feeling Through'

Empathy and Service

The positive impacts of empathy spread further than many may think. In fact, the award-winning 2019 film Feeling Through, created by Doug Roland Films Giant Hunter Media, illustrates this idea. The short drama shows how a young, homeless boy, Tereek, and a deafblind man, Artie, share their struggles; through leaning on each other, they find comfort. Thus, the friendship that grows between Tereek and Artie demonstrates the idea that acting with empathy allows individuals to be of service to each other.

The film Feeling Through incorporates many examples of empathy and of revealing why it is necessary. On the other hand, without knowing what empathy is, it can be hard to use in daily life. However, a strong understanding allows

Therefore, it is one thing to try and see a situation from the other person's perspective, but the challenge comes when putting themselves in the shoes of another individual. In fact, empathy is only truly practiced when an individual takes time to reflect on how they would feel in a similar situation and goes further to acknowledge and validate the feelings of the individual. For instance, the young boy Tereek, after reflecting on many of his feelings continues his night walking down the street with the idea of empathy in mind. During this, Tereek comes across a homeless man who previously asked Tereek for money. Tereek, “looks down with concern…and drops the same 10 dollar bill he had taken from Artie in the homeless man’s change cup” (Ronald 00:16:47). Meanwhile, in the first encounter Tereek said he had nothing to spare, which was true at the time, but after

For instance, as Tereek wanders the streets looking for shelter he comes across Artie, a man in need of help, but no one willing to step up. Reflecting on his situation, he takes the initiative to help. However, Artie being deaf and blind creates many barriers, but Tereek is determined to work around them. “Instead of taking Artie by the arm, Tereek tentatively takes Artie’s hand…placing it on his left shoulder…and leads him down the street” (Roland 00:04:21). Tereek realizes that Artie has no one to help him, similarly to his own situation, empathizes and can see where he is coming from. Tereek could have easily walked past and ignored Artie, in order to focus on his problems and prioritize his needs before others, but recognizing and understanding Artie’s situation encouraged him to take the initiative. Through being empathetic Tereek was able to show kindness and patience, along with being of service to Artie. Again, Tereek continues to help Artie by assisting him to the bus stop. As the bus approaches Tereek makes certain Artie will be okay, then Tereek informs the bus driver. “This guy’s blind and deaf. You gotta tap him and let him know when he gets to 129th street. His name’s Artie” (Roland 00:14:52). The conversation continues after the bus driver dismisses the concerned comment coming from Tereek, who is persistent in advocating for Artie. Tereek continues to carve