It’s history repeating itself. Time and again I find myself re-learning that the best you can do sometimes, is just to listen. To give space. To make sure the other person knows their pain has been shared.

In the rush to give help, we don’t always let loved ones express themselves fully. We skip ahead to problem solving, not wanting to dwell on the discomfort. Your loved one might not need you to solve it. They might have accepted this problem is insoluble.

They just need you to listen.

Just for now.

Pay attention.