I fervently hope the phrase, "I know exactly how you feel", never again comes out of my mouth. I used to think these words offered someone a measure of comfort when they were going through a challenging time. I've since learned otherwise.
Yesterday I was sharing how I felt about something when the person I was conversing with uttered the phrase. It brought me no comfort. I found myself wishing they would have just let me speak. Instead, the words they spoke didn't give me the opportunity to fully share what was in my heart.
I found myself wondering how they could possibly know how I felt. They didn't have the same experience as mine. Nor did they have the same personality, biology or life challenges. So, how could they feel or think as I do?
I know they meant well. Most people do. They just missed the mark a bit, as we all do from time to time.
This experience, I hope, will make me a better Human Being. Perhaps a better listener. Because I now know not to say, "I know exactly how you feel".
Yesterday I was sharing how I felt about something when the person I was conversing with uttered the phrase. It brought me no comfort. I found myself wishing they would have just let me speak. Instead, the words they spoke didn't give me the opportunity to fully share what was in my heart.
I found myself wondering how they could possibly know how I felt. They didn't have the same experience as mine. Nor did they have the same personality, biology or life challenges. So, how could they feel or think as I do?
I know they meant well. Most people do. They just missed the mark a bit, as we all do from time to time.
This experience, I hope, will make me a better Human Being. Perhaps a better listener. Because I now know not to say, "I know exactly how you feel".
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