I have seen and heard a lot lately about how certain groups of people's situations are nothing compared to trials that others have faced. While this might be true, it does not lessen the feelings that people experience for any number of reasons or make their struggles any less important. Everyone handles situations differently and people are affected to differing degrees. What might seem trivial or unimportant to some, might be life-shattering or drastic for others.
For the high school seniors who have had their last year of high school cut short by the current school closures, this is a big deal. In the grand scheme of things or compared to events that other 18-year-olds have faced, such as going to war, some might say today's kids have nothing to complain about. However, to them, this is a huge deal! They are missing their friends, not getting to have a graduation or prom, and missing other milestones that are very important to a lot of people.
For people struggling with depression, alcoholism, drug addiction, or any other mental illness, social isolating might be a big deal. I understand that essential workers are making huge sacrifices for all of us, and I am so very thankful for all of those people. I don't know if I could be strong enough to be in their shoes right now. However, we also have to remember that asking some people to stay away from friends and family and to just stay home is also a huge sacrifice for them. They might need the distraction of work or other social interactions to keep them from falling off the wagon or having suicidal thoughts. Both groups of people's feelings and struggles are very real and important, so we need to show empathy for all.
When we use phrases like "at least" or "it could be worse," it gives the impression that we are not empathetic toward their situation and don't understand it. Instead of showing compassion, we seem to belittle or shame them for their feelings. We don't need to compare our hard times and determine whose is better or worse, we just need to show empathy and understand that, to each individual, their feelings are real and justified.
