It’s only been over the last couple of years that I have identified as an Empath.

I didn’t realize before that there is a name for the wellspring of emotions that I have and my tendency to absorb the emotions of others.

I recently attended the funeral for my uncle who passed away unexpectedly. This was the first time that I’ve attended a funeral conscious of my own tendency to feed on the emotions around me. I knew that this would be difficult for many reasons, not the least of which was my own shock and grief.

While spending time with my family during the visitation, I often felt overwhelmed and unable to process my own feelings because of all of the emotions around me.

When I had a private moment, I was able to express how that felt by writing this poem.

Grief of an Empath

My grief is a private thing

It’s tucked inside feathered wings

It’s warm and soft, a fragile heart

That beats when yours won’t start.

It flies in darkness when others sleep

A quiet vigil that I will keep

Until the sky paints pink and gray

And then I tuck my grief away.

So I’m strong enough to help them stand

To dry their tears and hold their hands

To hear your stories, which I will save

I’ll visit them but not your grave.

My grief is a private thing

Your life in words, a song I’ll sing

But my eyes are dry, my head held high

Until night comes and it will fly.

Being an Empath often feels like a weakness, but it is a strength. It takes a strong person to stand under the often-overwhelming emotions of others and still be able to work through our own.

I hope that gives you courage when you need it: you are strong enough. Bear up under the weight of it because it is both your burden and your gift.

Author: Crystal Jackson

Editor: Renée Picard

Image: Rooslan/Flickr