May 7, 2013

Burdens of Empathy

I have a deeply empathetic side. This would probably come as a shock to people that I don't know that well, I tend to come across as reserved. But those that know me know that there is generally a whole lot brewing below the surface. If you want to know what I'm feeling, there's a very good chance that it is exactly what you're feeling.

Are you sad? Then so am I. I can't help it. I'm sorry. Feeling angry? Upset? Abandoned? Well.....then so am I. This becomes a really big problem when two people's emotions continuously feed off of each others. Part of this is what makes me a decent nurse; my ability to identify and understand the emotions of my patients. These are vital of course. But it's draining. And I'm tired. I just want a hug.