tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post4818923446738656980..comments2024-01-02T21:16:08.896+11:00Comments on Apples of Gold: How to Help a Struggling FriendJessicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-13225003777757059172017-08-29T11:33:59.799+10:002017-08-29T11:33:59.799+10:00It's something I have to tell myself often too...It's something I have to tell myself often too. I like how you said <i>the heart is more helpful than the head</i>. That's a good way of putting it. :) Yes! If it inspired just a little more empathy, this post has done its work. Thanks for reading and commenting, Jo. I appreciate it as always. :)Jessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-72004931486199413412017-08-29T11:14:44.452+10:002017-08-29T11:14:44.452+10:00You're so welcome, Gloria. Yes! It sounds like...You're so welcome, Gloria. Yes! It sounds like we have that in common. :) Thanks for commenting, and I hope this could be helpful to you. We're in this together!Jessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-42488915130834498032017-08-27T22:43:36.241+10:002017-08-27T22:43:36.241+10:00"Earn the right to give advice" - this o..."Earn the right to give advice" - this one I remind myself of all the time. I used to be more INTJ - solutions-oriented, analytical, that sort of thing. But I realise there are many situations where the heart is more helpful than the head. I really love the emphasis on empathy and understanding in this post. The key to quality friendship indeed. :)jodiehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15645843961463128576noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-56502696408972447432017-08-27T03:14:27.616+10:002017-08-27T03:14:27.616+10:00Thanks so much for this entire post! I often strug...Thanks so much for this entire post! I often struggle with wanting to help others who are hurting, but not knowing how. I'm a a bit of a blunt person and don't mind telling people what I think they need to hear. Thanks for the reminder to just listen and let them grieve, instead of trying to drill positivity into them.Gloria Kluthhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10655482830974172647noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-51896229783899899262017-08-23T16:28:23.999+10:002017-08-23T16:28:23.999+10:00Well, thanks so much for your encouragement! Your ...Well, thanks so much for your encouragement! Your enthusiasm never fails to make me smile. :) And that's a super important point - change has to be their decision. Thanks for your comment, girl! You're a blessing!Jessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-45754977217005481042017-08-23T16:24:29.201+10:002017-08-23T16:24:29.201+10:00Yes! And that's an excellent point about being...Yes! And that's an excellent point about being patient, Abby. It's not going to be an overnight process. Thanks for sharing; I always appreciate your comments. :)Jessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-59378294501636472722017-08-18T11:35:00.950+10:002017-08-18T11:35:00.950+10:00These tips are so, so wonderful. <3 THANK YOU F...These tips are so, so wonderful. <3 THANK YOU FOR THIS POST. It needs to be shouted from the rooftops. Especially the part about not just drilling positivity into a person -- like, yes, it's definitely what they need (to look on the bright side and count their blessings) but they have to choose happiness for themselves, it can't be forced on them. BASICALLY I WANT TO SAY THIS IS WONDERFUL POST AND YOU ARE A WONDERFUL PERSON AND A BRIGHT LIGHT OF CHRIST FOR ALL THE WORLD <33333 KEEP IT UP, GIRL.<br /><br />rock on,<br /><a href="http://www.abbieemusicblog.com/" rel="nofollow">abbiee</a>Abbieehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08315835789865447678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-70220230990694445102017-08-18T11:08:47.032+10:002017-08-18T11:08:47.032+10:00You basically described me too! I'm trying to ...You basically described me too! I'm trying to learn to be empathetic, but it takes putting myself aside..<br /><br />I hope it was helpful! Thanks for your comment, and may we both keep growing in this area! :)Jessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-46581894526635468572017-08-18T11:04:31.840+10:002017-08-18T11:04:31.840+10:00I was wondering if that was obvious at all! ;) Tha...I was wondering if that was obvious at all! ;) Thanks so much for your support too. So blessed to have you as a friend! xxJessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-36047223480239014922017-08-18T11:01:51.467+10:002017-08-18T11:01:51.467+10:00Yes, I think I'd put listening at the top too....Yes, I think I'd put listening at the top too. That is sad! It's crazy to think so many people are suffering from lack of something we can all give. :(<br /><br />Thanks for your comment - I'm blessed by heart to reach out to others. Keep on! xxJessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-67604261690293356342017-08-18T10:52:02.420+10:002017-08-18T10:52:02.420+10:00Hey Grace! It's always nice to hear from you. ...Hey Grace! It's always nice to hear from you. :) Praise God this could be a blessing.<br /><br />Thanks for sharing! It's always encouraging to hear other's experiences. That sounds so providential. I'm so glad you got to reach out to that man (and even pray together)! And that the afternoon was encouraging too - you have such a ministry there with AY's. God definitely is good!<br /><br />Thanks for your lovely comment. Many blessings to you!Jessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-45349189022818419812017-08-18T10:42:14.765+10:002017-08-18T10:42:14.765+10:00Amen! With God, everything's possible, right?!...Amen! With God, everything's possible, right?! Thanks a lot for your comment, Sarah! As you so faithfully encourage us, let's keep shining for Him! :)Jessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-78192166582408152542017-08-18T10:33:11.821+10:002017-08-18T10:33:11.821+10:00And you are incredible yourself. ;) Yes, it can be...And you are incredible yourself. ;) Yes, it can be a bit of a tough behind-the-scenes experience. But it's encouraging to remember God notices and gives strength for it!<br /><br />So glad this could be helpful for you, Vanessa! Keep up your good work of being there for others, and thanks for your comment! xxJessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-86333156588545177782017-08-18T10:24:04.743+10:002017-08-18T10:24:04.743+10:00Wow, I relate to your comment a lot, Jem. It's...Wow, I relate to your comment a lot, Jem. It's challenging for me to step out too, but my heart aches for others. It's so good to hear of others stretching the introvert label, and determining to be a blessing! May God bless you in that endeavor!<br /><br />Thanks heaps for the comment and follow, Jem! :)Jessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-41927812034717415352017-08-18T10:05:08.471+10:002017-08-18T10:05:08.471+10:00Aw Sophy, you're so sweet! :') All praise ...Aw Sophy, you're so sweet! :') All praise to God. I'm touched and privileged to be a part of His plan to bless others! Thanks so much for your encouragement, and keep sharing your enthusiastic kindness! xxJessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-87680668465998409582017-08-18T09:51:22.276+10:002017-08-18T09:51:22.276+10:00Praise God! I'm so glad it encouraged you! Kee...Praise God! I'm so glad it encouraged you! Keep on keeping on - I'm sure God will bless your efforts, even if the effects are not seen until eternity! <br /><br />Thanks for your lovely comment, Emily. xxJessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-43029510359827571422017-08-18T09:46:18.462+10:002017-08-18T09:46:18.462+10:00Thanks, Gray! :) Hoping they can be of help to som...Thanks, Gray! :) Hoping they can be of help to someone!Jessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-12851505290462271322017-08-18T09:40:40.683+10:002017-08-18T09:40:40.683+10:00I know what you mean! Insecurity is the biggest th...I know what you mean! Insecurity is the biggest thing that stops me from reaching out too. Good on you for showing kindness even when it seems no one needs it - because I'm pretty sure everyone always benefits from more love and kindness! It's true it sometimes seems unrewarded, but God sees. :)<br /><br />Oh, that would've been powerful! I had a similar reminder yesterday - I judged the lady behind the counter, and later I found out she'd had a really tough day. You're so right: we just don't know. <br /><br />Thanks, Anna. I always enjoy reading your thoughts, and keep spreading sunshine! :) You're a blessing. xxJessicahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06543574650970283141noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-65627229692066752492017-08-17T14:20:01.153+10:002017-08-17T14:20:01.153+10:00I think asking genuine questions is important. I k...I think asking genuine questions is important. I know for some of my friends, they struggle with opening up and they're less likely to open up if just the generic questions that are just asked. I think it's also important to be patient, because they may not answer for awhile, but if they trust you and you show that you're there, they will open up to you.<br /><br />xoxo Abigail Lennah | <a href="http://theworldthroughmywindowsill.blogspot.com" rel="nofollow">ups & downs</a>Abigail Lennahhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00629691351291882685noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-21992438326424939712017-08-16T21:31:02.385+10:002017-08-16T21:31:02.385+10:00Listen and let them grieve. I have the same tenden...Listen and let them grieve. I have the same tendency to want to drill positivity. I usually hold back - because I'm too timid to speak up, not because I'm sensitive to the fact that what their going through is more real to them than I can understand. Thanks for this perspective!Jordy Leighhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06825438584409420647noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-66445757666225626372017-08-16T15:20:30.238+10:002017-08-16T15:20:30.238+10:00Aww! Amen Jess :) Sounds like what the Counselling...Aww! Amen Jess :) Sounds like what the Counselling course is teaching... and it really does work! Thanks for always being there for me friend...Shanna Dukehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12982446529593734885noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-22440404239013864532017-08-16T00:21:43.308+10:002017-08-16T00:21:43.308+10:00I love this list so much! I think listening is one...I love this list so much! I think listening is one of my top recommended things because it's so important yet we don't always take the time to allow people to rant. There's this one girl I've began kinda mentoring and she just wants someone to listen. It's super sad I'm one of the first people who actually does something so simple for her... Kara Lynnhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14989463309759286352noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-69258569766338601302017-08-15T14:09:38.942+10:002017-08-15T14:09:38.942+10:00Just amazing! Thank you so much for sharing this t...Just amazing! Thank you so much for sharing this timely post Jess!<br /><br />This just reminds me of a couple of experiences which I had on Sabbath.<br /><br />1. It was ordinances at our home church and for some reason I did not feel impressed to partake in the ordinances as per usual. So when the men and women both separated for the foot-washing segment, I took the opportunity to use the bathroom. On my way out of the bathroom I found my mother talking with an older member who had fallen away from the church. We stood talking with this man for the next 15-20 minutes. During that time he shared his heartache and burdens with us. I felt impressed to offer up a prayer with him on the spot, and there were a few tears shed. After the service, he came back to us saying, "I feel so light after the prayers, God is good!"<br /><br />2. We had lunch on the esplanade with friends and family from church (our AY ministries hosted), as the AY leader, sometimes it can get quite challenging and discouraging. But I was reminded just how much God cared by sending the right people at the right time. God is amazing!<br /><br />Sometimes we are used to help other people, other times, God sends people to help us.<br /><br />Thank you so much for sharing Jess, God bless you and keep you, and may your writings continue to be a blessing to other people who read it! :)Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15790192226828852083noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-19999869888436780982017-08-15T10:12:24.919+10:002017-08-15T10:12:24.919+10:00Wow, amazing post Jessica. Thanks for the tips! Ye...Wow, amazing post Jessica. Thanks for the tips! Yeah, just smiling at someone can make their day. This post was really encouraging! Sometimes it's hard to go around all the time and be joyful, but we can try to be in the Lord :)Sarah Gracehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15830253815748803857noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1346274191957691135.post-30330938364664147582017-08-15T09:30:58.161+10:002017-08-15T09:30:58.161+10:00You are such an amazing human! I try so hard to be...You are such an amazing human! I try so hard to be there for who I can but sometimes it's HARD. People don't give you words to say that you are doing a good job of being there. But seeing these tips in words is a helpful little cheat sheet. I need to work on a few of these!Vanessahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01549115091616004193noreply@blogger.com