Empathy through Narratives: Stories Flashcards
Memoir Excerpt: Growing Up in a Different Country
Maria, a young girl, moves from Mexico to the United States with her family. She struggles to fit in at school because of her accent and limited English skills.
“Maria stared at the paper in front of her. The math problems were easy, but the words around them were like a thick forest she couldn’t see through. When the teacher called on her, the other kids turned to look. Her cheeks burned as she stumbled over the words, their giggles cutting into her like sharp glass. That night, Maria’s father sat her down. ‘It’s okay to make mistakes,’ he said in Spanish. ‘You’re learning. And one day, those kids will wish they spoke two languages too.’ Maria smiled faintly. Tomorrow, she would try again.”
Documentary Story: Overcoming a Disability
David, who uses a wheelchair after an accident, works to make his workplace more accessible.
“David wheeled into the meeting room, his usual spot already taken by someone’s backpack. He carefully moved it aside, pretending not to notice the sidelong glances. ‘Thanks for making time today,’ he began. ‘I’ve drafted a proposal to improve accessibility around the office. It’s not just for me; it’s for anyone who might visit or join us in the future.’ By the end of the meeting, even the skeptic in the corner was nodding along. David felt a quiet surge of pride—his voice mattered.”
Refugee Journey: Starting Over in a New Country
Amal, a Syrian refugee, navigates life in Germany, learning a new language and finding work.
“The job interview was her first chance to prove herself. Amal’s German was careful and slow, each word selected like a puzzle piece. She explained her experience as a nurse back home, her hands trembling slightly. The manager leaned forward. ‘We’ll need to verify your certifications,’ he said, but there was warmth in his tone. Amal walked out of the office into the crisp air. For the first time in months, she felt hope blooming like spring flowers.”
Navigating Prejudice: Workplace Challenges
Priya, a software engineer, faces microaggressions in her predominantly male team.
“During the presentation, Priya’s colleague interrupted her for the third time. She took a deep breath. ‘Thank you for your input, Mark,’ she said firmly. ‘As I was saying, this solution has already been tested and proven to work.’ The room fell silent, her steady voice demanding respect. Later, her manager pulled her aside. ‘I noticed what happened in there. Let’s talk about how we can ensure everyone’s voice is heard.’ Priya nodded, grateful for the support.”
A Female Manager in a Business Setting
Clara, the only woman on the executive team, advocates for more inclusive hiring practices.
“When Clara suggested adding a mentorship program for young women, the room went quiet. She pressed on, sharing data on how diversity improved company performance. By the end of her presentation, the CEO smiled. ‘Let’s make it happen,’ he said. Clara felt a rush of accomplishment—a small step, but a meaningful one.”
A Black Man from a Lower Socioeconomic Background
Jamal, a talented student, balances part-time jobs and school while applying to college.
“Jamal’s hands ached from bussing tables all evening, but he pulled out his laptop anyway. His essay for the scholarship application needed to be perfect. He wrote about his mother’s resilience and his dream of becoming a teacher. When he finally hit submit, he whispered a prayer. ‘This is for us,’ he thought.”
A White Man from a Lower Socioeconomic Background
Mike, a factory worker, takes night classes to pursue a degree.
“Mike’s coworkers laughed when they saw his textbooks. ‘Too good for us now?’ one joked. Mike shrugged it off. Every night, he stayed up late studying, dreaming of a future where he didn’t have to choose between groceries and rent. When he aced his first exam, he didn’t tell anyone—the pride was enough.”
A Jewish Person with Israeli Heritage
Rachel volunteers to teach Hebrew to refugee children.
Rachel handed the little boy a pencil. ‘Write your name,’ she said gently. He looked up at her, his eyes wide with uncertainty. She demonstrated, writing her name slowly. ‘See? You can do it too.’ When he finally scrawled the letters, Rachel beamed. ‘Perfect,’ she said. ‘You’re a natural.’”
A Muslim Person with Palestinian Heritage
Sami, an artist, creates a mural promoting peace in his neighborhood.
“Sami’s hands were speckled with paint as he added the finishing touches to the mural. It showed children of all backgrounds playing together under a bright sun. When an elderly neighbor stopped to admire it, Sami’s heart swelled. ‘It’s beautiful,’ she said. ‘We need more of this.’”
A University Student from an Asian Background
Mei navigates pressure from her family to excel academically while pursuing her passion for music.
“Mei’s mother frowned at the guitar in the corner. ‘You should focus on your studies,’ she said. But that night, Mei wrote a song about her struggle, pouring her heart into every note. When she played it at a campus event, the applause reminded her why she couldn’t give up on her dream.”
A White Older Man from a Privileged Background
Richard, a retired lawyer, mentors young activists from diverse backgrounds.
“Richard listened intently as the young woman shared her plan to combat housing inequality. ‘I never thought about it that way,’ he admitted. ‘How can I help?’ Together, they mapped out a strategy. Richard realized he had just as much to learn as he had to teach.”
A Black Man from a Higher Socioeconomic Background
Andre, a CEO, challenges stereotypes by speaking openly about his mental health journey.
“Andre’s voice trembled slightly as he addressed the crowd. ‘Success doesn’t make you immune to struggle,’ he said. ‘I’ve battled anxiety for years, but seeking help changed my life.’ The standing ovation reminded him that vulnerability was a strength, not a weakness.”
A Trans Person
Alex advocates for gender-neutral restrooms at their university.
“Alex stood in front of the student council. ‘It’s not just about me,’ they said. ‘It’s about creating a space where everyone feels safe.’ When the council voted in favour, Alex’s friends hugged them tightly. Progress, Alex thought, starts with one step.”
A Gay or Lesbian Person
Elena organizes a Pride event in a small, conservative town.
“The turnout was small, but Elena didn’t mind. As the rainbow flags waved in the breeze, she saw a teenage girl smile for the first time all day. ‘Thank you for this,’ the girl said softly. Elena’s heart soared—this was why she did it.”
