When someone puts their heart on the line and loves anyone, or anything, there is always a chance of getting hurt. Heartbreak can stem from the end of a relationship, a lost friendship, or the death of a loved one. Regardless of the source, the pain is all the same, and when faced with these trying moments, we wonder, why? The pain never seems to make sense, and when every heartbeat sends a pulse of pain throughout your body, you'll start to understand why the term is called "heartbreak". When I found myself heartbroken and alone through various times in my life, I never imagined that there could be a reason for these feelings.

When dealing with tough emotions, I was always presented with two options, either confide in my friends or endure the journey alone. There is a time and a place for everything, and although I knew it would be unhealthy for me to traverse such a vulnerable state all alone, I also was cognizant of the fact that I couldn't rely on others for all of my emotional needs. Striking a balance was challenging, but the decision was made a lot simpler when my friends would start telling me things I did not want to hear.

Everyone has their own set of rules when it comes to relationships and break-ups, but these rules aren't always universal.

"Wait three days before texting back."

"Don't talk to him until he reaches out."

"After all that, you're still giving him a second chance?!"

Turning to friends for help, only to be met with harsh opinions, though well-intended, was hurtful. Hearing these discouraging words led me to believe that no advice was always better than bad advice, and I carry that mentality with me when navigating other people's broken hearts. I also realized that no one can ever know what truly happens between two people. Friends' interjections and comments can't measure up to the history two individuals shared, and they shouldn't determine your actions at the present moment when they weren't there for the other parts.

This past month, two of my closest friends experienced immense heartbreak. My instinct was to offer them any support that they might need, whether that was a distraction or a loyal ear. Being there for my friends has always been a priority for me, but as I was juggling emotions on top of my other commitments, I began to wonder which of my obligations would have to fall through the cracks. As a college student, my inner mantra always screams that school comes first. However, helping my friends through their trials gave me a new perspective. I began to think back to my own experiences with heartbreak. The way it consumed my thoughts and prevented me from being productive, the fact that it felt as though it would never end. I began to understand why I had to endure that pain in the past. It adds a layer of understanding to our interactions, and it allows me to have a different kind of empathy towards them. By reliving my past heartbreak through theirs, we all can find healing.