Be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate.
—1 Peter 3:8
“[God] comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us” (2 Cor 1:4).
People suffering the loss of a companion have sometimes approached me for comfort in their grief because I’ve been there, having lost my wife. They’ve felt that since I’ve been through what they’re going through, I’ll understand and be able to give counsel.
Strictly speaking, I haven’t been through what they’re going through. The loss may be similar, but it’s not identical. Every relationship has a history of its own.
Be sympathetic. Be sensitive. Be supportive.
But be cautious. The fact that lots of people have had a toothache doesn’t make your toothache less painful.
Advice should be delivered
with compassionate caution.