Some Good, Some Hard

Dear Reader,

Do you know someone who takes life a little too seriously?  Do you find yourself repeatedly telling that person to just lighten up a little?  If you do, please read this website:

Highly Sensitive People

Having had many sensitive friends in the past, I have learned that -- though they can be a challenge to interact with -- they are some of the best, fiercest friends.  Highly sensitive people care very deeply about friends, family, and even strangers.  If you are in a tough spot in life, they don't hesitate even a moment to come help you out.  They brighten your day before you even realized you were having a rough one (but maybe that's just because I'm not always aware of my own emotions :P ).  When they laugh, they light up the room with the light of their smile, and they have an uncanny ability to make people feel loved.

As it says in the article, highly sensitive people are prone to depression and anxiety, most especially if they've had troubling experiences in the past.  Yes, this can be tiring, because that means intense lows come with all of their intense highs.  They don't take criticism very well, and a few "jokes" can easily cut them down to nothing.  There are times when they just deeply, deeply need to be held.  They need reinforcement like fish need water.  Because of this, not everyone has the patience to care for and really get to know highly sensitive people; after all, they can put up some pretty high walls to protect themselves.

These are challenges that sensitive people and their loved ones face every day.  But that doesn't mean being a sensitive person is a bad thing.  In fact, I would say the opposite.  Being friends with highly sensitive people throughout my life has given me two things: a deep understanding that I am loved, and a better capacity to love.  Please, be a little patient.  A sensitive person needs gentleness like an independent person needs freedom.  In my experience, if you put a little more effort into your relationship with that person, and you may be the one to shine a little light into their depression.  At the same time, you will gain a friendship that will last a lifetime.  Give up a little crudeness for the sensitive person in your life, and they will help you develop a love that makes you want to cry and laugh at the same time; something so wonderful that you can hardly stand it.  Caring for them and letting them care for you will make you better and stronger in every way.

Okay, now I sound like a total preacher :P But I want to invite you to share a little kindness.  It doesn't have to be anything huge: I'm a big believer in the power of little things.  As always, feel free to share stories and ideas in the comments.