Empaths

Being an Empath is not a title to adorn as if it sets one apart from the collective. Being empathic is an additional skill set certain humans possess (most notably, psychics and clairvoyants). These souls also fall into the neurodivergent community. There’s a whole world of terminologies and theories surrounding the Empath (and their natural nemesis, the Narcissist).

I personally believe these are all modern terms for the age-old battle of good and evil. I believe we are all existing on spectrums and we can all slide along those spectrums with awareness and practicing changed habits to break cycles. The first step always being a want for change. Ironically, the collectives online who often claim to be an Empath are wounded, sensitive souls who go around gatekeeping “true Empath” as if there’s a rulebook (there isn’t). These souls will act like mean girls to one another, ‘you’re not Empath enough to sit with us.’ Completely failing to see their own lack of empathy for the human condition.

Inversely the Narcissist is noted to lack emotions or empathy for others—serving only their benefits. It is said that the Narcissist will seek out an Empath in order to feed from their care and kindness. While the Empath is often eager to be kind and care for everyone making them susceptible to the deception of a narcissist. Unless, they develop their awareness and boundaries.

There are also theories made that both the Empath and the Narcissist experienced traumas that led to their characteristics. The Empath, in their pain, wanted to spare anyone else from feeling hurt. While the Narcissist, in their pain, want retribution from the world. Again, I believe these are modern labels for good and evil traits and we all have the ability to slide either way.

Think of it like Star Wars the Sith and the Jedi. We can choose to harness our light, to embrace love and kindness. Or we can delve into the darkness to exact our vengeance’s against the world. Each will have it’s benefits and downfalls. It’s a choice that each individual has to make for their own life.

Personally, I lived a lot of my life trying to please people who never truly cared about my well-being. I’ve endured more trauma than I care to recount and I’ve survived. Learning to love myself as I am and develop boundaries to protect my well-being has changed everything in my life. I have little to no time for those who are careless with me and it affords me more time with those who value me and I am grateful.

Be well, sweet souls. 💛

If you identify with the neurodivergent community, would appreciate an adult space with a focus on support and betterment, I’d like to invite you to check out my discord server! Where shame, blame and devaluation are discouraged while compassion and personal growth are encouraged. The server is designated mature (18+) and minors are promptly removed. Multiple categories allow Members to decide what sort of content they’d like to see from the server using selections in the #about-you channel after joining. You’re invited!