Be The Person You Needed
In times of hardship and struggle, we often find ourselves yearning for someone who understands, empathizes, and shows us compassion.
But what if, instead of waiting for that person, we strive to be the one we needed…for the next person.
I can’t stress enough the importance of showing compassion to others in their times of difficulty, and what that can do for both the giver and the receiver.
I can perfectly pinpoint who was there for me or was a monumental influence in my life when I was battling life’s difficulties.
“I’ll never forget who checked on me when I was at rock bottom.”
Empathy is the ability to put ourselves in someone else's shoes, to understand their feelings and experiences. It is a powerful human trait that allows us to connect on a deeper level with others.
In times of hardship, we often long for someone who can empathize with our struggles and offer a listening ear. Being the person that you needed, means harnessing this empathy and using it to support others when they need it the most. It's about recognizing that you have the capacity to provide comfort, understanding, and compassion to those facing adversity.
“It’s all about who stands in the rain with you when they could be dry if they wanted to.”
Hardship can be an isolating experience. When we encounter difficulties, we may feel alone in our struggles, even if others are going through similar challenges.
You can help break the cycle of isolation. Offering a kind word, a compassionate ear, or a shoulder to lean on can provide solace and remind others that they are not alone in their journey.
Compassion is a gift that keeps on giving. When you show empathy and kindness to others in their times of need, you create a ripple effect of positive energy.
The person you help may, in turn, show compassion to someone else, creating a chain reaction of support and understanding. When you extend compassion to others, you are more likely to receive it in return.
“Be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people.”
By presenting yourself as someone of genuine and comforting character you cultivate a network of support that can sustain you during your own challenging moments.
While the primary focus of being compassionate is to help others, it also provides an opportunity for personal growth and self-improvement.
Offering support to those in need allows you to hone your listening skills, enhance your empathy, and become a better communicator. It deepens your emotional intelligence and strengthens your ability to connect with others.
Compassion is not only beneficial for the person receiving it, but also for the one giving it. When you show compassion to others in times of hardship, you experience a sense of fulfillment and purpose. It can be healing and cathartic, providing you with a sense of meaning and connection in your own life.
“Be thankful for all the people who spoke to the winner in you, before you started winning.”
In times of hardship, the world can seem like a more compassionate and understanding place when we encounter individuals who embody the qualities of the person we needed during our challenging moments.
The transformative power of compassion goes beyond offering solace to those in need; it fosters growth, connection, and a sense of purpose.
So, let us strive to be the empathetic, compassionate presence that others need in their times of hardship, and in doing so, we'll not only make a difference in their lives but also in our own.
Share your story! Who is someone in your life that has made a tremendous impact on your sobriety journey? What are some ways that we can actively “be the person we needed” for the next person? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
