The Journey to the Empath part 2

(Read part 1 of my empath journey here.)

In Spring 2012 I was researching narcissism because my siblings and I had diagnosed my mother with this disorder. It was an eye-opening discovery and answered for me a lot of questions I had about my self-esteem issues. As I was searching, a very significant article jumped out at me called “30 Traits Of An Empath.”

Intrigued, I opened it and my heart began to beat faster. I found myself identifying with most of the items on the list. Items such as just knowing some things without knowing how you know, being unable to witness violence, cruelty or tragedy whether it be in real life or in the media, being overwhelmed in public places with too many people, even strangers opening up conversations and unloading problems, and so much more. I identified with almost all of the list. I just didn’t realize they added up to a label.

The article explained many things I didn’t understand about myself. Like the reason for my unexplained outburst of tears and sorrow I experienced when the funeral procession of an unknown stranger passed by me on the road. Or the awful anxiety I feel when I am shopping in a big store with many people around. My incessant need for solitude and nature. When I thought I was just running away, I was just trying to clear all the emotions and energies.

I spent the next few weeks reading to try to understand. I lost track of time. The need for knowledge consumed me, and I realized I had discovered just the very tip of a big iceberg.

Empath Journey Is Spiritual

I don’t know how it is for others who make this discovery, but for me, it was a spiritual journey. In trying to figure out how to understand and live with this thing, I spent a lot of time deep in thought and meditation. I felt very alone and didn’t think there was a person within my personal circle who would understand.

I am not comfortable opening to strangers, especially about something so unconventional. In fact, I felt most would think the depression I had just undergone had caused me to go off the deep end.

As I pulled deeper inside myself I went into isolation. It was easier than answering the questions of the curious friends who had noticed my changed behavior.

Finally, I felt out a few trusted people. I dropped hints to see their reactions and found a couple of dear souls who would talk things through with me.

Thankfully these friends were able to help me start to return to life. When emotions overwhelmed me I had support. I had people to turn to who could salvage my sanity.

It was a good start.

Find the next part of my journey here.