The lesson goes beyond counseling in a formal sense; it also applies to our everyday friendships. Personally, I find it particularly difficult to act compassionate when my heart would otherwise feel heavy. This is especially true when I am dealing with friends who have transgressed against me multiple times.

It is true that, as Christians, forgiveness is meant to be as natural as breathing. Yet, in the same way, it is undeniably difficult to confront and address such pain, especially when it comes from people who are close to us, people from whom we expect better.

Perhaps, then, they may need to find another “counselor.” It is hard to act as a friend-counselor when you yourself are the one who was wounded. As you have said earlier sir, I might just become more subjective and possibly hurt them. Perhaps to be silent is better and wait until emotions subside.