No matter how hard I try, I can't fully imagine experiences I haven't had. I am limited by my mind's ability to form images of a person's circumstances. Frequently these images are far from complete.

For instance, I heard of the bushfires from Queensland to Western Australia before seeing the tv images. I had mind pictures that were so far from reality, I was completely shocked by the extent of the devastation. I cannot imagine the total extent of the fire ground being the same size as the UK. How do I imagine that?  

The other aspect of these fires that assaulted my imagination, is the impact on families, fire-fighters and support teams. I have not experienced the destructive effects of fire, so it is not possible for me to fully imagine what these communities have to deal with.      

In the world I live in, I try to explain a few things to folk who offer to support me. They will be most helpful if they ask if I'm okay to talk them through how things are going today. This alternative gives me 3 options. First, it is nice to be asked by the enquirer if she/he might come into my day. Second, it reduces the focus on conditions I can't fix. Many times I become weary of talking about matters that are not improving. Third, it provides me choices as to what I say & how much detail is appropriate for discussion on that day. Well, it seems to work for me. Maybe for you?