Yesterday a friend's mother passed away. It is difficult for me to connect with how people must be feeling at a time such as this. My traditional style empathy tank ran out of fuel, methinks, so I cannot feel along with them. I am, by nature, somewhat of a pragmatist, so thinking of practical things is how I show my concern. I make sure people eat. I get the tissues. I make the tea. I know that some people see me as being aloof, uncaring, and I suppose I am in a way. But tears are not the only comfort.