When Compassion Meets Limitations

A few months ago, one of the youth in our Art Program, whom we'll call Sally, moved to a town outside the city. While it was sad to see her go, we were excited about the new experiences and opportunities this move could bring her. She would be closer to family and, hopefully, make new friends.

Then, a few weeks ago, I noticed I had several missed calls from her—something unusual. When I called her back, I could immediately hear the panic in her voice. Holding back tears, she told me her boyfriend had taken his own life.

My heart broke as I listened to her pain. Life always seemed to hit Sally so hard—it felt like she could never catch a break.

I reached out to other staff at OIM who knew her, and together we supported Sally as best we could. We checked in regularly, even though the distance made it difficult to be physically present. We encouraged her to connect with local resources that could provide the support she needed.

When you're filled with deep compassion for people, it's hard not to want to fix everything for them. We want to carry their burdens, solve their problems—but the truth is, we can’t. We’re only human. If we try to take on everything, we will burn out.

In Matthew 11:28-30, we read, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

We can’t heal or fix everyone’s problems—but Jesus can. So, instead of trying to carry the full weight of Sally’s grief ourselves, our staff and volunteers continued to love her, support her, and most importantly, lift her situation up in prayer.

Recently, I spoke with Sally again. She shared that she’s attending grief counselling, participating in therapy groups, and slowly finding the strength to heal.

~Marissa, Youth Assistant