Nehisi Coates

Mapping Pain into Pathways of Compassionate Action

Finally, the map asks for steps. Begin by naming one wound and the nearest person affected, then write what relief would look like tomorrow, in a month, and in a year. Translate that vision into a small action with a deadline—an email, a meeting, a donation, a policy draft—and ask two companions to join. Close the loop with feedback from those most harmed, then iterate the route. In this way, pain stops circling the same cul-de-sac and starts pointing forward. [...]