From Empathy to Compassion 💗 (+ How to Help After the Floods)

I’ve always been an empath.

Maybe you are too.

For the past 11 years, I’ve been consciously shifting from the unhealthy version of empathy—where I take on others’ pain as my own—to a healthier way of being: compassionate.

It’s a work in progress, but it’s made all the difference.

Thank goodness for loving teachers like Dr. Mario Martinez and Anita Moorjani, who’ve guided me toward balance.

Dr. Martinez teaches that when we take on other people’s emotions as if they’re our own, it can drain our energy and leave us feeling helpless. Instead, he invites us into healthy compassion—the kind that keeps us rooted in our center and asks, “What can I do?”

Because when we respond from that place, we not only help others… we stay whole ourselves. 🕊️

Anita Moorjani says:

“I came to understand that being an empath wasn’t a condition I could get rid of… Instead, I had to learn to accept it, love it, and work with it.” 

That’s been a game-changer for me—learning to embrace my sensitivity, love it, and work with it, instead of being overwhelmed by it.

Now, when I feel overwhelmed by the pain of others, I take a pause and ask myself the clarifying question:

👉 “What can I do?”

If the answer is nothing, I send a prayer for the highest outcome. 🙏

But often, there is something I can do:

✨ Send a kind text

✨ Write a heartfelt card

✨ Drop off a nourishing meal

✨ Babysit for tired parents

✨ Pet-sit or bring pet food

✨ Offer to help clean

✨ Share trusted information

✨ Or make a donation

These acts heal both the giver and receiver, rooting us in compassion and action rather than sorrow or overwhelm.

🌊 As I write this, I’m asking, “What can I do?" for the people and animals flooded here in Central Texas.

Since I’m still traveling on sabbatical and not able to help in person, I’ve chosen to donate—and wanted to share these two organizations in case you’re also wondering, ‘What can I do?"

Kerr County Flood Relief Fund

Supporting neighbors, first responders, and rebuilding efforts

👉 Donate here

Austin Pets Alive!

Rescuing and caring for animals displaced by the flooding

👉 Donate here

With deep compassion,

Deb 💗 🌿