1941) Everyone is carrying burdens that are often not seen by others. No matter how together someone seems, below the surface, there can be an element of pain. It’s hard to remember this, as we don’t always see when someone else is struggling or suffering.  

When we do know of other’s difficulties, what do we do? It might be helpful to reflect on what we shouldn’t do. We shouldn’t reach out from above, meaning, I know exactly what you’re going through, so listen to me.  

We also shouldn’t reach out from below. I can’t help you because I can’t even help myself.  

A third option is found in Galatians 6:2. Paul instructs us to bear one another’s burdens laterally. We come right beside the suffering and help them lift their burden. I understand this to mean I get right into the metaphorical flood, and I help the person stay above the water.

The best gift we can give to others is to be by their side, sharing in the burden.