There Are Worse Things So It Doesn't Matter

I love this thread.

 

Yeah, the "it could be worse" thing can be a MAJOR source of power to someone. Some people are wired to take strength from the idea of other people's strength, so the idea that someone somewhere is dealing with a situation worse than theirs gives them the drive to deal with their own. I think a lot of the people who end up hurting someone by telling them it could be worse are just misguided, thinking the person will react the positively, but there are definitely a number of people who feel guilt rather than inner strength. Honestly, I think a big part is that wording this can make it seem REALLY harsh, REALLY easily without intending it.