It's Okay To Not Be Understood
I’ve come to believe that when someone won’t make any effort to understand us, this is usually what it comes down: deep pain that’s blocking them from love. They might be shut down to everyone. Or specific ideas that trigger something from their past. Or maybe we, ourselves, are the trigger. Maybe we remind them of something they want to forget. Maybe our very presence forces them to come face to face with something they’d rather avoid. If we really want understanding, maybe the key is to choose understanding. Maybe the secret is to broaden our perspective beyond what would make us feel safe in a moment so we can do our part to help create a greater sense of safety for everyone we encounter. Maybe by choosing to offer understanding, we can influence the people around us to heal their pains so they can one day open their heart a little wider. When they’re ready. When they feel safe. So what’s the best thing to say to someone who does...