Some people—unfortunately and too often, women—are considered overly emotional. While it’s true there may be physiological reasons for their frequent or sudden outbursts of feelings, it would be a mistake to judge any person as being immature or lacking self-control for simply expressing their emotions. Enter the empath.
Empath: one who experiences the emotions of others: a person who has empathy for others. [Merriam-Webster Dictionary]
Before we continue, let’s highlight one of many reasons why it’s not okay to use empath as a reason to dump our yucky stuff all over our spouse, child, or best friend. Truth is, if we allow our feelings and emotions to roam free and wild, we can end up hurting the folks we care about the most. And, not coincidentally, have a mess backfire on us as well.
Healthy people know it is wisdom to express their emotions. Healthy people also have a sense of responsibility for how that’s to happen.
Truly empathetic people are compassionate and understanding of their fellow human beings in ways that transcend the ordinary. They seem to intuitively discern what is needed—the best word, a light touch, or the gift of silent presence, to name a few.
While empaths have empathy for others, they experience the emotions of others as well. And that’s where confusion can cloudy the picture. How is it this possible, we may wonder?
From a spiritual perspective, many faith traditions recognize the fact there are empaths among us—highly sensitive people frequently referred to as intercessors. Because these intercessors are able to intuit on a deeply emotional level the feelings and emotions of those who struggle with various life challenges and difficulties, they intercede for them. They pray, discern, and offer what they are feeling to the Divine on behalf of the one in need.
The whole idea of empaths is not some fly-by-night pop psychology. While we have much yet to learn about what it means to be an empath, a multitude of studies over the last fifty plus years have produced plenty of scientific evidence to support the reality these folks are not only among us, they are an important aspect of the fabric of our human condition.
A caution—it behooves us to seek guidance if we believe we, or someone we know, is an empath. The discernment and insight offered by a counselor, spiritual director or advisor, or medical professional can be invaluable to bring clarity to the situation. Sometimes people need help distinguishing the difference between the emotions and feelings of a getting through a personally painful or upsetting life event and manifesting those behaviors characteristic of an empath.
If one discovers there is a name and explanation for the depth and extent of the emotions they experience on a rather regular basis—empath—this information in and of itself will go a long way toward helping that individual understand they are not odd or deluded.
For Christians there is no greater example of what it means to be empathetic as well as an empath than the person of Jesus. Which means we can rest in the knowledge that to be a Christ follower is to follow the one who shows us the way—in all things.
Do I tend to experience a lot of feelings and emotions?
Do I wonder why this happens?
Have I ruled out a psychological, physical, or other medical condition?
Can I embrace the idea these feelings and emotions may serve a higher purpose?
