I may have posted this before, but it's coming out one way or another and my posting it now is evidence that I still struggle with it.
I have a problem with empathy. I hear a story of someone's grief and I grieve with them. Not a 'Oh-how-sad-for-them' kind of sadness. This is a world rocking, debilitating emotion that sweeps over me for people who I often don't even know. (Think May from The Secret Life of Bees) On the other hand, when I hear good news - from any corner of the globe - it gives me strength to move on. I smile and I laugh and I cry tears of joy for situations I'll never have personal contact with. Is it a blessing or a curse? I don't know.
I have friends who hesitate to "burden" me with their heavy loads because I take it every bit as hard as they do. But truth is, some things are just too heavy to carry around by yourself. I appreciate the opportunity to mourn with people I care about so they know they aren't alone. I'm usually a first call with good news though! Which I'm equally grateful for.
There are people hurting out there. No, I don't like to dwell in sadness, but how can I go about my day without pausing and praying? Someone out there is in the worst pain they've ever felt in their life. Someone just lost a baby. Someone just found out their spouse has died. Some people are watching their families being slaughtered while their country is at war. I just think these people deserve a minute out of my day. Comfort them, Lord.
People are rejoicing! Someone's adoption was just finalized. Someone just got a positive pregnancy test after years of praying and struggling with infertility. Someone just heard their mothers cancer is in remission. These people deserve attention too! Hallelujah! Can you believe how good our God is?!
When it's my turn to grieve or rejoice, I hope I'll have someone - maybe it wont be anyone I've ever met - but I'll have someone who "suffers" from an over abundance of empathy. I hope someone will share those moments with me. What's a Happily Ever After if you have no one to share it with?
Rylee, you are such a wonderful person. You really are. :-)
ReplyDeleteHow about pride and gratitude, which is what I'm feeling right now as your Mom. I asked the Lord to help my children love people like He loves people....because sometimes they can be hard to love in these times we live in. The love of many will wax cold - but I've prayed for you that your love will NOT wax cold - but instead ever increase. The Lord has answered my prayers. I love you, Rylee.
ReplyDeleteOh Rylee!!!! Share your ups and your downs with me and I will be there to support and rejoice with you. God is great, and you will always have someone to share his gifts with! Just reach out and I know you will have an abundance of love, always! You are awesome and I love you! HUGS to you and your beautiful family!
ReplyDeleteI feel like after reading that, I could wrote that myself. (of course not at eliquently at you) All I can say is I know exactly what you are saying, because I am the SAME way. Love you Rylee, and you know I am always here for you! <3
ReplyDeleteI love you Rylee!!!
ReplyDeleteI feel like I could say the same about myself. You are awesome, Rylee, and can share with me anytime!
ReplyDeleteI feel you get out of relationships what you put into them. Obviously, you put forth alot! And your friends & family benefit. :)
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