Should I Try to Enhance My Empathic Abilities?

If you accept that empathy is a spiritual gift, and you've determined that empathy is your spiritual gift, then you may wonder whether it is advisable to try an increase or enhance your empathic abilities.  In considering this, it is important to tread carefully.

The Soul and the Spirit Part 1

I'll not quote the cliche, but I do get a definite sense about a persons eyes.  Most of the time, I just pick up on the degree of clarity which I take as an indicator of overall health, but every so often, I get a really strong sense, usually in the positive.  Those are the times that my impression is of something greater, more along the lines of (I use these terms creatively) a pure or vibrant spirit, a kindred spirit, a young soul or an old soul.  It's unmistakable when it happens, or is shown to me (it doesn't happen at my will).

What is the soul?  Is it separate from the body?  Does it depart the body when we die?