[God] comforts us..., that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

A mother who lost her son asked...[a] philosopher how to overcome her deep grief. "I can help you, but you must first bring me some mustard seed....[from] a home where there has never been any loss or sorrow.".....

The woman started her search, but in every home she visited was someone who had known some heartbreaking loss. Returning..., she exclaimed, "How selfish I have been! Sorrow is common to all."

"Ah," said the philosopher, "you have learned a valuable lesson. Because you know sorrow, you can sympathize with others and comfort them. And when you do, your own sorrow will be lessened."