ANY time is a great time to hear from you my dear @steepup :) Believe me, I understand what is like to have a busy routine 😅
Oh, wow ... that example you shared with me here, of someone seeking your attention is truly extreme one. I can only imagine the shock you experienced when you learnt the truth! Some people do resort to intense ways to be liked, or empathized with; sometimes that happens because of psychological issues, others because of low moral values.
But, please note that, empathy is not about being able to stand what we visually cannot deal with, for example the scenario of burning homes. Empathy is mostly about understudying how serious that situation is, and what it might have cost to the people who were directly involved in it.
As for your friend's example, if he is a prankster, I suppose your reaction was only natural 😆 "we thought he was joking as his usual practice". Still, it is always nice to responded with respect towards people's painful experiences when they are real. But, a great thing you said here is that you have consciously adopted the habit of listening to people and paying attention to what they say in a non-judgmental way.
I am a great believer of the moto "kindness begets kindness". Also, I really respect you for being brave enough to look into yourself, acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, have the courage to adopt news ways of being. For me this is true strength!
Thank you for always being so kind to me my dear.
Your words are very, very loving and encouraging.
You have a special heart! 😊 😘
Thanks am glad knowing you on this platform.