two feet in one shoe

I’ve been told that I am very empathetic.
I tend to delve too deep into other people’s shoes, they say.
Maybe, they are right...I don’t know.
Sometimes, I’m not sure anymore...whether what I’m feeling is really mine or somebody else’s...

I’ve been told that I am a good listener.
I listen very well and others feel safe to open themselves up to me, they say.
After I’ve been told several times...they are right, I guess.
I like to share stories when I have one to tell.
I know how satisfying and happy it’ll make you feel to have somebody listening to you...
And some stories just feel more meaningful and more joyful when shared...
I just couldn’t ignore that...
I just could not, not return that favour...

When a friend is sad, how can you not feel her sorrow?
You’ve been down that road before...
It was painful for you, why should it be too for others?
Hold her hands if words are scarce...
Pat her back if a hug is too much...
Give her tissues if tears are cheap for her that day...


When a friend received good news, how can you not celebrate and be genuinely happy for her?
Looking at how hard she works...how focus she is at it...
How can you be nothing but jealous at her success?
No need for expensive cakes or presents...
Just a sincere congratulation topped up with a smile would be enough.

When something bad happened to your friend, how can you not worry?
When your friend cries, how can you not feel something?
You, who cried watching movies which are not even real, aren’t you ashamed of yourself?

Communication goes both ways...
We need it as much as the other person needs it.
Stop and listen sometimes...
Don’t listen too much on what your brain has to say when it comes to another...
What matters is you listen to your heart.
Be true, you’ll be a good friend.

When your friend got selected over you... Fine, tell her you are jealous.
But, don’t forget to tell her as well that you are happy for her.
It’s not hard...just take a few minutes to talk to your heart...
Ask your heart what does it feels about it.
Face it.
The answer will come to you on what to do next.

If ever a friend did something wrong...
Please don’t attack her straight on like I did my friend.
Even now, I still regretted that terribly...
Instead ask yourself first, how you feel about it.
Be honest.
Follow your heart.
You’ll be fine.