We lost one of our own today. All the interns gathered this morning to say goodbye to Amy. There were waterfalls of tears, heartfelt prayers, and even some genuine from-the-gut laughter. Watching each one hug Amy and sob out goodbyes was treacherous, yet I couldn't look away. I had to watch. Each one. Each moment. And I cried and cried...

Times like these, my empathy feels like a burden. For I can do nothing to mend broken hearts...

I am so glad that Niel and I had the three-hour drive to the airport to spend with Amy. We had some great conversations and shared some good laughs. When we pulled in at the airport and climbed out of the car, Amy and I locked eyes. We both started to shake our heads, and, as if against our will, the tears started flowing again...

I cried off the last bit of mascara that still managed to be on my eyelashes.

I am emptied out. And my heart feels like it has a hollowed out corner in it.

I'm glad God is holding me---us, the entire Thrive family---in the palm of His hands. His empathy is not a burden. For He who knit us together in our mothers' wombs can surely knit back together our broken hearts...