Cultivating Empathy

Describe one positive change you have made in your life.

For the longest time I struggled with this, especially when others were emotional about things that I had an emotional disconnect button for. I just didn’t understand, why couldn’t they just let this thing or person go that wasn’t any good for them or had done them wrong so many times.

I even did personal study projects in the Bible and with Bible based publications, but at best, I only “understood” it from an intellectual perspective and not from feelings, feeling their pain in my heart. It was part of my personality, it was (now from hindsight) a coping mechanism to not feel emotions, and when I did, I got upset with myself. That also transferred into how I felt about others’ pain.

During the pandemic, I was introduced to Renée Hughes, a holistic aromatherapist who helps with mood regulation. In my time with her, I was able to peel back layers of emotions and cobwebs that held me back from feeling for others. I still had to find a way to relate their pain, at times, to something I’ve gone through, yet I was able to feel. There are times now that’s not even needed. It’s a real response right in the moment.

I believe this has made me a better person, sister, daughter, friend, coach, and above all, Christian.

I am thankful for saying yes to that investment, as it’s helped shape me into who I am today: A more empathetic person.