Being an Empath in a World of Unfairness

"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." -Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

Being an empath is truly bittersweet. An "empath" is defined as a person who is capable of feeling the emotions of others despite the fact that they themselves are not going through the same situation. 

In today's world it's evident that people are hurting, and that can definitely take a toll on you if you allow it. I find myself physically and emotionally drained when it comes to these recent acts of violence against unarmed black women, children and men at the hands of police brutality. Another hashtag. Another person without a child, or a mother, or a father, aunt, or uncle today. 

As I scroll through my newsfeed, I see countless videos being shared, long think pieces being written out, and a lot of self-proclaimed "history analyst." I ask myself, "Why don't people get it?" "Why can't people understand that this not a competition on oppression but it should be a moment of being united." "Where is the compassion?" 

Again, this can be mentally exhausting. So, it's important to check on your mental health. Make sure you're okay and if you're not take some time to recuperate and try again. There's nothing wrong with being sensitive and there's nothing wrong with feeling things. I find that just talking to God helps during times like these, I just express how I'm feeling and ask for guidance on how we can actively make a difference. Writing also helps, just find an outlet to express and vent how you feel in a SAFE space. I emphasize safe because not all platforms are particularly safe for us to express ourselves without being immediately shut down. It shouldn't be this way, but it's definitely our reality. Turn off social media, the news or anything that feeds into the negative non-sense. Basically, what I'm saying is to guard your heart and your mind. 

Times like these can be difficult but self care is the most important thing. 

9.26.2016 - downtown plant shooting