Ask Emma Anything | Part 1 - Compassion

Question: “Looking back, what did you need that you didn’t get?”

My answer: Compassion.

This past year showed me who had my back when I needed it most. It also taught me that compassion isn’t always there, even from people I’ve been there for.

I didn’t expect everyone to understand my journey or agree with me on everything. I simply needed a little more understanding and compassion during a difficult season.

That being said, I cannot end this post without saying how grateful I am for those who showed up for me, each in their own way. Words will never be enough to express my gratitude to them. Thank you for holding me.

A Little Reflection from Scripture

A few Bible verses that speak to my experience and the lessons I continue to learn.

1. A Compassionate Heart

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

— Colossians 3:12 (NIV)

Emma’s note: Compassion is a quality I value deeply. This past year reminded me that not everyone will extend the same compassion we offer others. Yet, I do not want my experiences to change the kind of person I choose to be. I want to continue leading with compassion, kindness, and gentleness, even as I learn and grow through life’s disappointments and storms.

2. Guarding My Heart with Wisdom

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

— Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

Emma’s note: Guarding my heart is not as easy as it may seem, especially when so many things can break it. But oh, how important it is to guard it!

This does not mean building walls or becoming bitter. It means learning to be discerning about the relationships I nurture, the energy I give, and the expectations I place on others. I can love people and wish them well while recognising that not every relationship will offer the understanding or support I need.

3. The Compassion We Extend to One Another

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

— Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

Emma’s ote: We may never fully understand what another person is going through, but we can always choose kindness. Sometimes, people do not need us to have the right words or solutions. They simply need us to listen, show understanding, and treat them with dignity.

4. Being There for One Another

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

— 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Emma’s note: I am deeply grateful for the people who showed up for me throughout this journey, each in their own way. Some offered practical help, others gave me their time, and some simply made their presence felt. Their kindness reminded me that we do not always need grand gestures to make a difference in someone’s life. Sometimes, simply being there is enough.

A Final Thought

This past year has taught me many things, but one lesson I will carry with me is this: I can remain compassionate without overlooking the importance of discernment. I can be grateful for those who stood beside me while acknowledging the relationships that disappointed me.

May we always find the grace to be compassionate, the wisdom to guard our hearts, and the humility to recognise how much our presence can mean to someone going through a difficult season.

Blessings,

Emmanuella