Thaw was nicely handled. A check for any actual injury to the new and healing piercing; some comforting and direct Dad advice on how to apologize; and not making them do so, letting them come to it. Which sounds like it did not take too long. Keep being strong stable Dad. With some gentle steering here and there.
Yes, most LBS become more emotionally connected to themselves and others. Empathy and sensitivity do increase. Oddly, that path also brings the ability to temporarily put aside those heightened feelings too; like the stop sign visualization you mentioned. It’s all part of acceptance, that emotional understanding - both of self and others.
Originally Posted by grok
Was this emotional overload? what W was looking for relief from? Why they run?
A taste of it.
You know where and why your feelings originated. You understood/understand why you felt like you did during the aftermath of the pillow fight. A person in crisis does not. The origin of their emotional torment is unrealized. Without indication of why or where they feel what they do, it is near impossible to understand or make peace with it. Yet, their torment remains ceaseless and long term, and they run.
Unlike the LBS, a crisis individual usually becomes lacking in empathy and sensitivity towards others. The crisis stealing away the caring person they once were, or more accurately stealing away their ability/capacity to do so. Their depression and pain and sorrow drags them down and turns them inward. Their own emotions are cranked to eleven and they simply have no bandwidth for other’s. Their internal pressure is bubbling over. And they must find relief.
They run for a land free from pressure and responsibility. Yet, life still goes on. Bills, kids, work, etc. They ignore plenty, and eventually reap consequences from what they sow. Which is more pressure and pain. No matter how far or fast they run, they cannot escape, for there they are.
Originally Posted by grok
In all my life I have NEVER been affected by others' emotions like this. I don't have the tools or experience to deal with it.
You are adding to your toolbox and gaining experience everyday. Emotional intelligence is just one of the many benefits from this golden opportunity you never asked for. Walk the path. Walk in the light.
Have a great day.
D
Feelings are fleeting. Be better, not bitter. Love the person, forgive the sin.
