I’ve come to understand over time that the CR is really not my place. However, ever once and a while I notice a topic that strikes my interest. Non-the-less, I’m not sure if I really should participate or not. I hope my time isn’t poorly spent here.
Sam Klein – seeing your post I asked myself (knowing that the CR is often used to shoot the breeze and for levity) whether your post is serious or not. My comment here is based on the “possibility” that your comment may just in fact be 100% genuine w/o any exaggeration. If this is the case here is my response.
It is a good middah to have Ahavah for others and to share in their happiness and pain. Non-the-less, the Rambam states that every middah needs to be used in measurements. Not too much to the left, nor the right, but rather the middle path.
You feel that your emotions for others is based on an extremely lofty level of love for others and thus as you view tragedy after tragedy and the sufferings of Klal Yisrael you become very mournful and broken. It sounds as you have fallen into a state of depression that you find difficult (or impossible) to get out of. It this is the case you must understand two things.
First of all, if you would have been zoche to know Gedolim personally you would learn 1) the burdens and sufferings of Klal Yisrael weigh heavily upon them and yet, 2) their tears are reserved for the right time. In general they are fully joy and life as the Torah states, Chai B’Hem (“LIVE by them”). Mourning for Klal Yisrael has specific times. Tisha B’Av for example. It is not right to be in a constant state of mourning. That is the Isur of Yi’ush (despair) which comes from a lack of Imuna in Hashem.
Second – It is not out of the question nor is it shameful to seek professional help to assist you in coping with depression and those things that trigger these emotions. Nor is it contrary to Torah to take medicine to relieve stress, depression, or any other emotional symptoms you may be experiencing whether short term or chronic. We live in a time where the challenges are much greater than ever before and the stress on us is often beyond individual strengths to over come. I highly recommend to seek professional assistance in place of forums.
May we all know better times.