A Feral Cat, Puzzling 2

[RosaLinda]

She did let out that her friends apparently don't want to/can't listen to, and I quote, "her sh!t anymore and she needs to see a therapist". No mind reading that statement from me, it's her experience, her thoughts, etc. I was just my newer usual self, validating, full-on engaged listening, and some good ol' fashioned STFU. I do like this "no-fix" mentality. Seems to help keep communication co-operative and empathetic...and less stressful for all parties.

Sorry about the loss of your cat, T^2. Our pets' unconditional love is so comforting. 

Speaking from personal experience, peri-menopause can be a horrible time due to the hormonal imbalance. I could not sleep, I could not concentrate or think clearly, would burst into tears at the slightest provocation, felt horrible. Sort of like a MLCer I bet! Hormone replacement was a life (and marriage) saver. 

I am having difficulty validating some of my my H's statements. For example, earlier today, he was discussing a wooden fence he is building and said he could use the white plastic kind across the front of the property. He said he doesn't care one way or the other, and in fact doesn't care or have any interest in anything. I think he could feel that I was truly  listening and caring, but didn't know what to say. 

I've read that we need to validate our MLCers and let them know that we understand what they are saying and don't think they are crazy or wrong. I did not know what to say - I considered "I understand what you mean" or "really?" but  just said "I'm sorry you feel like that." Can you give me an example of what you would have said to validate your W if she said something like that? 

Thanks!