What to say when you don't know what to say

“I know how you feel.”

The intent of this statement is to make a human connection and provide comfort.

In reality, it doesn’t do either.

Genuine motive; poor execution.

Instead of trying to provide comfort, have the courage to join others in their discomfort.

Even if you’ve faced a similar circumstance, you can’t understand how someone else feels because you’re not them.

Rather than spouting off a tired cliché, offer the rare gift of a sincere question:

“How are you feeling?”

Then, let your ears do the work and give them space to talk.

Ultimately, this produces the connection you seek and the healing they need.