I heard this line mentioned to someone last week and it resonated deeply with the work I was doing. I interpreted it as a plea for sensitivity from someone who was feeling a little vulnerable at the time. ​

​It made me mindful of the way it was making the person feel, and I started to reflect upon the important roles we play in other people’s lives, through the impact of what we say and do. ​

​People’s dreams are often fragile, and careless words and actions can easily hurt or discourage them. Kindness, consideration, and empathy are crucial in today’s world, especially where people are increasingly open about their struggles, hopes, and mental health. This short interaction was a gentle reminder to treat the dreams and aspirations of others (and our own) with the care and respect they deserve.​

​We live in a world where social media amplifies the voices and opinions of others. We need to make sure we’re influencing in a responsible way and building others’ self esteem rather than knocking it down.​

​And as individuals on the receiving end of insensitivity, we need to think about how we manage our self-care and preservation of boundaries to ensure our dreams are nurtured rather than trampled on by the indifference of others.