Does hearing "I know how you feel" make you feel better or worse? Do you have hope that if someone else coped you can too? Or do you think there is no way anyone can relate? Do you feel obligated to tell them your story? What can be said when just listening isn't enough?
My friends are struggling with various personal conflicts. Some are engaging in destructive behavior. I feel useless to help them. Everyone has to walk their own path, right?
What would you say? No cliches about life and lemonade...
My friends are struggling with various personal conflicts. Some are engaging in destructive behavior. I feel useless to help them. Everyone has to walk their own path, right?
What would you say? No cliches about life and lemonade...
Really, when people go through issues and struggles, there is very little anyone can do to 'help' them.
ReplyDeleteListening may be helpful, but in many cases you'll have no practical experiences to understand or aid them.
In times like those, the most important thing you can do for your friends is to be there for them without condemnation or judgment. Be open minded, understanding and approachable.
If they know you're there, they'll feel stronger and can find their own way.
Just my honest opinion.
R.S.