In her book "Stitches: A Handbook on Meaning, Hope, and Repair," Anne Lamott emphasizes the importance of companionship in times of deep sorrow. Rather than trying to fix someone's pain with empty words, she believes that simply being present with those who are suffering is a profound gift. This act of sitting with them through their despair allows them to feel supported during their hardest moments, showcasing the power of empathy and understanding.
Lamott highlights that helping others involves sacrificing our own burdens and the urge to rush through discomfort. By offering our presence, we enable those in distress to endure their tough situations without feeling alone. This approach turns our time and space into spaces of healing, where genuine connection and shared suffering can occur, reinforcing the idea that what truly matters is the compassion we show in the darkest times.