Advice Blog 4

by KelseyAlicia

Again, many of my stories have been an outlet for me. Many of the stories I've written are about how I deal with my lonely life and use it as a coping skill. Again, I'm giving this advice based on my life and how I feel. I'm sorry if writing slice of life or writing multiple stories as a way to cope isn't everyone's cup of tea.

Kathleen Wells had done significant reflection over the past few days. Between her coffee date with Mag and Leta and spending time with all five of her children, she'd discovered something particularly significant. So, for this week's advice blog, she wrote what she'd learned this week. This message needed to get out. More importantly, the individuals who read it thoroughly understood the significance behind the words and took it to heart.

" I'm not long in the world, and I believe I've many years left. However, as the wise Ms. Hughes from Downton Abbey once said, "I'm not a woman of the world, but I DON'T live in a sack!" I've realized that while the world has multiple issues, many things are getting out of hand. However, something vital is being lost these days. And I don't mean how numerous individuals have renounced their humanity, either.

People can't tell the difference anymore when someone needs someone to listen to them. To offer comfort and empathy, that they're not desiring people to 'fix' them. From what I've witnessed, people have entirely overlooked what it means to be a friend in need. Or to be there as a family member when someone is overwhelmed and needs to talk regarding their feelings and get them off their chest.

It doesn't mean they're looking for a therapist or, again, wanting to be 'fixed.' No, all some people desire and need is just a listening ear and someone showing they care. To hold them when they cry, whether physically or metaphorically. We all need, at times, a friend or a caring family member to vent, too. Again, to get our current emotions off our chest. I've witnessed several individuals who are already in treatment try to communicate to others that they want them to listen and offer emotional support.

They already have mental health services. What they need is something that mental health professional services can't provide. And that is the intimacy between friends and family. So again, try to understand that some individuals need someone to hear and give them emotional support. Nothing more and nothing less. That's all for now, folks. See you next time!"