"We must not see any person as an abstraction. Instead, we must see in every person a universe with its own secrets, with its own treasures, with its own sources of anguish, and with some measure of triumph."

When we encounter someone, it's easy to see them as just another face in the crowd, a fleeting presence in our day. But when you really think about it, every person is their own universe. They've got secrets, little treasures, and experiences that have shaped them. Their own battles and victories, no matter how big or small, are what make them who they are.

This idea, often attributed to the writer Elie Wiesel, emerges from a deep humanistic perspective. Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor, spoke from the heart of someone who had seen humanity at its worst. His words are a call to truly see each other, not just as people but as complex beings with our own intricate lives.

Imagine you're on a crowded subway. Look around. Each person has a story. There’s the elderly man with a worn-out hat—maybe he's a veteran, who once saved lives and now lives alone. The young woman with the headphones could be listening to a song that reminds her of a lost love. Every person carries a bundle of experiences with them, and it's easy to forget that.

So, how do we apply this in our everyday lives? Start by being genuinely present with people. When you're talking to someone, really listen. Don't just wait for your turn to speak. Ask questions that show you care about their answers. Show empathy. If a friend is struggling, don't just offer platitudes. Try to understand the specific challenges they're facing. It’s about seeing people beyond the surface.

Take, for example, a teacher. In a classroom full of students, it's tempting to see them as a collective group. But the best teachers know that each student is different. There was a story about a teacher who had a student that was always falling asleep in class. Instead of reprimanding him, she took the time to learn that he had a part-time job to support his family. Understanding his struggles transformed how she approached his education, offering him support rather than punishment.

Think about your own relationships. How often do we take our loved ones for granted, seeing them as part of the furniture of our lives rather than as the treasures they are? Taking a moment to appreciate their unique journeys can deepen our connections. It’s about small actions—sending a thoughtful text, remembering their important dates, or just sitting down and having a heart-to-heart conversation.

Imagine you're at a party and you meet someone new. Instead of the usual small talk, ask about their passions. What lights them up? You might discover they have an unusual hobby, like raising butterflies or collecting vintage comics. These are the little treasures in their universe. And in the sharing, you both become richer.

In a world that seems to move faster every day, taking the time to see others fully can seem daunting. But it’s worth it. When we connect with each other on this deeper level, we foster a more compassionate and understanding world. So next time you’re with someone, whether it's a stranger or a close friend, remember that they are a universe unto themselves. And in seeing them that way, you might just find new treasures in your own world too.