Our default response to other people’s bad days or tough times or injuries is either, get on with it and don’t moan or sympathy.
People say to someone who’s broken their leg ‘well at least the other leg is OK’. Or if you have had an illness ‘well it could be worse you could have had….’.
Most people just want someone to listen and understand when they have shit happen in their life or they’ve had a bad day.
But being empathetic is seen as a weakness and we all need to display a ‘stiff upper lip’. The fact is it takes some vulnerability, bravery and kindness to empathise with others.
The world would be a less hateful, angry, judgemental and cold place if we all choose to understand, listen and empathise. Share feelings not repress them or judge others for showing and sharing them.
Philip Dodson 