Originally Posted by
ccirider 
For me, what creates a negative, non supportive environment is when people seek sympathy. Why? Because when people seek sympathy they put feelings first. I am not saying that we shouldn't have empathy for people's feelings, but feelings should not come first, IMHO.
I have to agree here. Feelings are important, and feeling them rather than stuffing them is necessary, but they are not facts. I had to learn to feel the feelings without letting them run my life.
Also, the difference between sympathy and empathy is huge when it comes to detaching.
L