When you have a friend hurting, please stop by to see them. You don’t have to find a solution, but you can listen to their concerns. As a friend, you are not there to fix them, even though you may think you have the perfect answer. This is your time to let them vent.

What I mean by venting is that when someone is in a difficult situation, they need someone to hear their problems. They usually need sympathy and empathy. You may not have had a similar experience and can’t emphasize with the person. But you can say, “I’m sorry you are going through a difficult time. I wish I could help. If there is any way I could make a difference, please let me know.”

Sympathy is defined as “understanding between people; common feeling.” The word pity is also used in the definition, but I don’t care for that word. You are not in any way looking down on the person; you are showing you care. You want the best for them.

Your comfort, support, and caring are powerful acts of kindness…
Sympathy.