“Weep with those who weep,” tells us to be empathetic to those who are grieving.
But there’s another side we don’t think about: “Rejoice with those who rejoice.” That too is a call to empathy that is just as real as the sad side.
Brene Brown says, in Daring Greatly, “Joy is probably the most difficult emotion to really feel. Why? Because when we lose the ability or willingness to be vulnerable, joy becomes something we approach with deep foreboding.”
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Katie,
I always love reading your wise words. Thanks so much for making this blog. It’s terrific!
I am writing as well to ask if we could speak on the phone or meet at some point. I’m teaching in the Chance Program and experiencing difficulties. Laura told me you might be the one to talk to?
I’ve been putting off contacting you cause I’ve not yet finished your wonderful novel (which I’ve started) and feel profoundly guilty about that.
Anyway, if you’re too busy, no problemo!
Again, fabulous blog. Really fabulously wonderful to read.
Loren Hecht
Phone: 815-766-0016
I really enjoyed talking with you today. The changes you’re making are very exciting.
Maybe the kids are manipulating you to feel a certain way, so the trick might be to be Zen about it and not be manipulated. Maybe an analogy from horses would help. A trainer tells his students to stay quiet. If a horse wants to get rowdy well, that’s okay, he gets rowdy. You go with it, while staying safe. You say quiet internally, non reactive…Also maybe look for the courage and gallantry in the kids instead of the obvious what isn’t working. As you know, they will give you what you expect from them…
Thank you for enjoying my blog. Your encouragement means so much.
Katie:
My surprize birthday celebration when I turned 40 was hosted by my friend Marilyn, I had been on a cycling trip in Nova Scotia with a few years earlier,
It was held at her place the day after they had devastating news of her husband’s diagnosis of Parkinsons disease. She withheld this news until after we had a wonderful celebration with my family and friends. This and many other acts of generosity cemented our friendship. Seventeen years later when her husband died – the best part of the memorial was 7 young girls in top hats – re-enacting a game they had played with him – gave a marshmellow gun salute – a great tribute to his fun loving spirit.
What a wonderful story. Thank you for sharing, for your friend Marilyn’s showing us what generosity means. Bless you.