The tension of empathy

Empathy is listening and understanding instead of rushing to solve the problem.

Empathy is sitting in silence with someone when you’d rather chat about anything just to fill the void.

Empathy is doing small acts of kindness that are appreciated but might not be formally acknowledged.

Empathy is the courage to set boundaries and practice radical self-care when the opportunities and needs seem endless.

Empathy is knowing that you can’t help everyone but still giving generously to those you can.

Empathy is realizing the strength in vulnerability.

Empathy is being kind to yourself when you feel like you don’t deserve it.

Empathy is not knowing what someone needs to hear but choosing to say something instead of nothing.