DEUT657 We must be merciful. The Talmud cites this verse to show that one of the basic traits of the Jewish people is that of being merciful (Yevomos 79a). The essence of compassion is being able to imagine yourself in someone else's situation. It is the resulting softness of the heart that makes one sensitive to the suffering of others. (Ali Shur, p. 148). ... If you know that someone has a special problem and you are unable to speak to him in person, you should at least write him a letter call him up on the telephone to offer words of encouragement. Some people have a tendency to analyze the problems of others behind their backs, which often leads to loshon hora. A person who is merciful will try to help the person with constructive assistance or advice.