I feel deeply I feel others pain As if it were my own It puts me in a position to Empathize with people In a world that’s so insensitive I take on their feelings They become part of me Almost as if hoping that would take some of their pain away But the cost on my own mental health Is draining How do you recharge when Caring so deeply for others Sucks the very breath From your lungs The beats from your heart The life from your soul How do you find balance Empathy is my gift And my curse
– C.A. Sullivan
The Illuminated Page 