keep the kleenex close

"Rejoice with those who rejoice, 

weep with those who weep."

Romans 12:15

isn't a suggestion

"Rejoice with those who rejoice, 

weep with those who weep."

Romans 12:15

isn't conditional 

"Rejoice with those who rejoice, 

weep with those who weep."

Romans 12:15

isn't optional

"Rejoice with those who rejoice, 

weep with those who weep."

Romans 12:15

is something believers are instructed to do

and so, 

when friends celebrate

anniversaries

birthdays

special days

I rejoice with them

even when I am sad for myself

and when friends mourn 

I cry with them

"Rejoice with those who rejoice, 

weep with those who weep."

Romans 12:15

and I am thankful for those who do the same for me