Healing phrases can be heard when they are needed the most. Their impact can be deep and lasting, especially when they are accompanied by actions that genuinely demonstrate love and understanding.

Maybe we don't always notice what others are telling us. Maybe we don't respond as well as we’d like. Maybe we are out of practise. Perhaps we haven't had good role models. We can always learn to do better. Opportunities to heal ourselves and others will appear.

Here are some phrases that we can try:

I'm listening. I hear you. Tell me more. How are you feeling?

That must be... (discouraging, frustrating, gratifying, etc.)

I understand what you're saying. I see what you mean.

I understand how you might feel that way.

I believe you. That rings true.